Union County Board of Education Finance Committee Meeting (May 27, 2026)

The Union County Board of Education Finance Committee met on May 27, 2026, to discuss updates related to the 2026-27 state budget framework and its impact on local budgeting. Key procurement-related topics included salary increases for certified and non-certified staff, with an average 8% raise for teachers and a 3% increase for non-certified employees, effective July 1, 2026. The committee reviewed a potential $2.8 million local cost to cover one-time bonus payments to eligible staff, pending final eligibility criteria and state budget approval expected in mid-June. The county manager's budget proposal was also discussed, noting a $4.3 million shortfall from the requested $153 million, with full funding of capital projects at $20.9 million through a mix of sales tax, bonds, and state funds. The committee addressed the allocation of funds for resource officers, which would reduce operating funds by $2.7 million, and deliberated on local supplements for certified staff and teacher assistants. Additionally, the committee approved sending budget amendments, transfers, and an interim budget resolution to the full board. A contract renewal for Lightspeed, a web filtering service used by the technology department, was also presented for approval. The committee anticipates further meetings in June to finalize budget details and agreements affecting staff compensation and capital funding.