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Richland One board approves $425.7 million FY2026–27 general fund budget
Summary
The Richland One Board of School Commissioners on June 30 approved the third reading of a $425,732,827 general fund budget for fiscal year 2026–27, advancing teacher and staff pay steps and holding contingency pending final state revenue numbers.
The Richland One Board of School Commissioners unanimously approved the third reading of the district’s fiscal year 2026–27 general fund budget, voting to adopt a $425,732,827 spending plan based on House revenue projections pending final state numbers.
Sherry Matthews Hazel, chief financial officer, presented the budget as the administration’s recommendation and said the district was awaiting final state revenue figures. "At this time, we are awaiting final revenue numbers from the state legislature," Matthews Hazel said, explaining the current budget reflects House projections and that administrators will update the plan after the state's revenue is finalized.
The budget includes a state-required minimum teacher salary increase to $50,500 and a step increase for teachers. Non-teaching staff and bus drivers are budgeted for a 2% salary increase. Matthews Hazel also noted an anticipated $5.9 million increase from Richland County and a roughly $3.3 million projected state revenue increase in the district’s planning figures.
Board members asked for clarification on a recently revised travel-reimbursement policy that places a $52,500 annual cap on travel and conference reimbursements; the administration said the cap is allocated equally, which would amount to $7,500 per commissioner under the current policy. Commissioner Divine asked about a pending salary study; the administration said an RFP process is underway and any implementation would be considered for 2027–28.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the budget; Commissioner Divine seconded. The board voted unanimously with all seven commissioners present.
The board’s adoption is procedural pending final state revenue reconciliation; Matthews Hazel told the board she will return with any necessary adjustments once those figures are certified. The matter was approved and matters related to implementation (salary study timing, potential additional increases if revenues improve) were left to administration follow-up.
