School leaders ask county for $37,500 local match to accept full state school security grant; supervisors defer decision

Mr. Trump, speaking for Amelia County Public Schools, presented the school division's November financial report and a formal appropriation request to accept a larger-than-anticipated state school security equipment grant. "For your approval this evening, is an appropriation request totaling $212,500, 175,000 of which is new state funds awarded, and 37,500 of which is a is requested additional funding from the county to support the local match for the full state funds," he said.

The school representative explained that the state Department of Education awarded a larger grant this year and the division is seeking a local match to accept the full award and complete projects (door hardware, surveillance, entry improvements) by the June 30 procurement deadline. He warned procurement and installation timelines require early contracting so work can be finished by June 30.

Supervisors debated whether the county can commit additional local funds amid other midyear appropriations. One supervisor said the county has exceeded roughly $750,000 in appropriations this fiscal year and urged fiscal restraint; another noted the relatively small local share would secure a larger state investment and enhance school safety. The board asked staff for updated ADM (average daily membership) and revenue projections and agreed to revisit the request at the January meeting rather than vote immediately.

The board took no final appropriation at the meeting; staff will return with clarifying financial projections and the item remains pending.