STPPS Committee as a Whole: Finance & Administrative – 5/7/26

The STPPS Committee as a Whole held a Finance & Administrative meeting on May 7, 2026, focusing primarily on budgetary and procurement-related matters. Key discussions included the approval of a resolution to levy ad valorem millage rates for the 2026 tax year, with a slight rollback of 0.10 mills, and a review of the school board's long-term millage reductions and bond service. The committee also reviewed financial statements indicating property and sales tax collections meeting or exceeding budget expectations. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to approving the continuation of the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program for school meals, which involves a $2.6 million budget impact but provides free meals to nearly 36,000 students, with board members emphasizing the program's social and financial benefits. Construction updates were provided on ongoing and upcoming school facility projects, including design and bidding phases, with an introduction of a new assistant supervisor of construction. The meeting concluded with a move into executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategies. Motions related to budget approvals and program continuations were passed unanimously or with strong support, reflecting the board's commitment to fiscal stewardship and student welfare.