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Supervisors urge $759,000 cut and prioritize HVAC, elementary renovations
Summary
Supervisors recommended the schools reduce spending by $759,000 and prioritized HVAC and elementary renovations (including $5.4 million carryforward and a ~$7 million Sandy Hook package) over a new elementary school; Dr. Sheppard was asked for an updated breakdown.
Supervisor David Ferguson proposed that Shenandoah County Schools revisit their budget and cut $759,000, a recommendation several supervisors supported as they discussed where to find savings within school and county budgets.
Board members focused on prioritizing HVAC work and elementary-school renovations rather than funding a new elementary school in the FY2027 budget year. Chairman Taylor said $5.4 million of carryforward funds from FY26 would be used toward AE (HVAC) work; Supervisor Ferguson cited a combined total near $7 million for Sandy Hook Elementary HVAC, renovation and related work, and Mr. Vass confirmed the figure during the discussion. Supervisor Dotson requested that Dr. Sheppard provide an updated breakdown aligning with the board's CIP discussions so the board can see timeline and cost implications.
Members also debated whether to fund design work for a new CTE facility this budget year; Supervisor Dotson said he could not support design work for a new CTE facility in FY2027. The minutes note that the School Infrastructure Committee provides planning input but that the county historically has not directed the School Board line-by-line on spending. The board indicated it will consider supplemental appropriations tied to carryforward money if necessary.
