Newberry County board approves first reading of budget that narrows proposed raises

The Newberry County Board of Trustees on May 18 approved on first reading a district budget that trims proposed across‑the‑board pay increases while preserving step increases for employees, a move the board said was needed to reduce a continuing shortfall.

Board members debated two budget paths during a lengthy discussion in which administration and trustees described the district’s multi‑year deficit. One option would leave the district about $900,000 short; a costlier option would raise the shortfall to roughly $1.66 million, according to trustees’ statements during the meeting. Trustees discussed potential savings including suspending non‑budgeted year‑end bonuses and eliminating a 1% COLA for certain employee categories. Board members emphasized the trade‑off between limiting immediate costs and preserving teacher morale and retention.

At first reading, the board accepted “budget option three” with an amendment to remove the 1% increase across employee categories and to add back $20,000 to a savings line item. The motion passed by voice vote 4–3. Trustees noted the vote is a first reading; the budget will return for a second reading and final adoption after additional adjustments and as state funding actions become clear.

Administration presented background on the district’s finances and warned that step increases, encumbrances in facilities and future baseline commitments would affect subsequent years’ budgets. Trustees asked administration to continue work on a multiyear plan and to return with revised numbers ahead of the second reading.

The board also discussed options for smaller savings measures and the consequences of using fund balance to pay one‑time costs. The motion for the first reading does not finalize the budget; trustees will consider the item again at the second reading before a final vote.