06-04-26 BOE Budget Comm Mtg

The Ridgefield Public Schools Board of Education Operations Committee met on June 4, 2026, to discuss budget and procurement-related matters. A key focus was the District Repair and Improvement Project (DRIP) funds, with Ridgefield awarded approximately $165,000 for fiscal year 2026 from a $30 million state allocation for FY26 and FY27. The committee reviewed planned capital projects across several schools, including HVAC repairs, security enhancements, and facility maintenance, emphasizing that these projects are in addition to the existing capital plan and must be completed by the end of summer 2026. The funds are provided upfront without reimbursement requirements, facilitating timely project execution. The meeting also covered budget transfers, with a minor reallocation of $1,200 to support middle school instructional supplies, and discussed ongoing challenges with electricity costs impacting the district's budget. The committee approved gifts totaling $5,705 for fifth-grade celebrations and other school activities. No formal votes on contract awards were recorded, but the discussion highlighted careful budget management and capital improvement planning.