Richland One Board Meeting 6-9-2026

The Richland One School Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on June 9, 2026, at the Stevenson Administration Building in Columbia, South Carolina. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of the fiscal year 2026-2027 general fund budget totaling approximately $426.5 million, which featured salary increases for teachers, non-teachers, and bus drivers, as well as utility cost adjustments tied to an energy savings program. The board approved several contract extensions, including those for perishable and non-perishable food items, high-speed printer leases, temporary personnel staffing, facilities materials, and school resource officer (SRO) services provided by the Richland County Sheriff's Department and the City of Columbia Police Department. The SRO contracts, totaling approximately $3.6 million and $810,000 respectively, were discussed in detail, with board members addressing anticipated cost increases linked to salary and benefits adjustments. Additionally, the board approved a reallocation of $5.22 million from the fund balance to cover higher-than-anticipated costs, including SRO contract increases and facilities repairs. Several administrative hires and appointments were also approved during the meeting. The board emphasized ongoing oversight of contracts and the importance of balancing security needs with restorative practices in schools.