October 15 BOE Finance Committee Meeting

The Darien Public Schools Board of Education Finance Committee reviewed the September 2026 financial report at its October 15 meeting. The report showed a slight surplus of approximately $110,071, excluding flood-related damage costs estimated at roughly $1.2 million before insurance reimbursement. State aid of just under $61,000 will help fund a proposed $125,000 districtwide facilities master plan study, replacing the narrower high-school facility study originally budgeted at $90,000. The committee also discussed copier-cost overruns, staffing and enrollment-related savings, and the internal services fund, which was nearly $1 million above expectations as insurance claims continued to mature. No budget transfers were presented, and no procurement awards or spending motions were reported.

Flood damage and facility work were major topics. Vehicle damage costs were estimated at about $871,000, with approximately $489,000 assessed by the insurer so far; assessments for the Henley School boiler and other equipment remain pending. The district is considering a new above-grade boiler structure at Henley, with design and cost review underway; the boiler order had not yet been placed. Temporary heating is being arranged for shared spaces while classrooms have electric backup heat. The committee discussed potential future funding or a supplemental appropriation once reimbursement figures are clearer, but took no action on those items.