Newton County board adopts FY2027 budget after debate; members ask for earlier options and October review

The Newton County Board of Education on Tuesday approved the superintendent's recommended fiscal year 2027 budget after a lengthy discussion that highlighted concerns about benefits, revenue assumptions and the timing of budget options.

The superintendent, Dr. Bradley, told the board the FY27 recommendation follows the district's public review process and noted the final mill rate will be set in July following required public hearings under OCGA 20-2-1671 and board policy DC. A budget overview document was provided for board review.

Board members praised aspects of the plan but raised objections. Members noted the board maintained the supplemental retirement (403b) plan and removed a proposed one-mill increase in revenue, which lowered projected revenue. One board member said he had voted against the tentative budget and could not support adopting the current budget, urging strategic reductions and a follow-up review early in the year. Several members asked Dr. Bradley to present multiple options earlier in the process so the board can consider trade-offs and reach stronger consensus.

Dr. Bradley said the district must change how it operates and develops budgets, including rethinking the organizational footprint and aligning expenditures with fiscal reality while protecting the district's mission to provide "educational excellence for every child." He thanked the board for its engagement and said difficult but necessary changes are coming.

The chair called the vote after discussion; the board approved the superintendent's recommendation. The transcript records some opposition but does not provide an exact roll-call tally in the record. Board members asked that the superintendent return with additional options and that the board revisit the budget in October and make midyear adjustments if needed.