Thompson Board hears budget update; finance staff may seek supplemental allocation

The Thompson Board of Education received a progress report on the district’s FY26 finances at its March 9 meeting.

Finance and Facilities Director William Steglitz reported that the current budget remains $21.8 million and year-to-date spending is $13.7 million, or 62.9% of the total. He said projected spending is $21.7 million, roughly 99.9% of the budget, and that staff have requested a supplemental allocation from the Board of Finance while pursuing all available cost adjustments, particularly related to excess cost payments.

"The current budget remains unchanged at $21.8 million. Year-to-date spending is $13.7 million, representing 62.9% of the budget," Steglitz said. He characterized the district as slightly behind last year on spending and noted that encumbrances are slightly ahead, prompting efforts to reduce them where possible.

Superintendent Melinda Smith also provided routine updates that feed into fiscal planning, including a March 1 enrollment of 772 students and ongoing accreditation follow-up at the high school that will inform district priorities and resource needs. Smith recommended converting the full professional development day on May 22 into a regular school day to make up a snow day; the board voted to add that calendar update to New Business and it was carried forward for action.

Board members and local officials acknowledged the financial strain. First Selectman Nick Donahue thanked the board for its budget presentation and praised staff professionalism in handling a situation earlier that day. Chair Jessica Bolte said the town and district are facing significant financial challenges and urged the community to avoid spreading unverified information about personnel matters.

Next steps: district staff will continue to refine projections, identify cost adjustments, and work with the Board of Finance on the supplemental allocation request. The board did not take final budget votes at this meeting.