Fy27 Budget Hearing #2

The Catoosa County Public Schools held their second budget hearing for fiscal year 2027 on July 17, 2026. The meeting focused extensively on the school system's budget challenges, including the impact of state underfunding, local tax exemptions, and unfunded state mandates. Superintendent Nicks and Director Carter detailed the district's financial strategies such as transitioning classified staff to Kelly Education Services to reduce benefit costs, shifting expenses to special revenue funds, and maintaining reserves despite funding cuts. The proposed FY27 budget includes a 15.750 millage rate and anticipates a total general fund budget of approximately $144 million, with 89.4% allocated to salaries and benefits. Key procurement-related topics included the cost of a mandatory five-year audit, state-directed employee bonuses partially unfunded by the state, and capital project funding from debt service funds. Public comments highlighted concerns about property tax increases and educational outcomes. The board emphasized the necessity of proactive budgeting to address funding shortfalls and maintain educational services. No formal votes on budget adoption occurred during this hearing; the final millage rate vote was scheduled for July 16, 2026.