09.29.2026 PBA Bargaining Session #1

The School District of Palm Beach County’s PBA Bargaining Session #1 was held September 29, 2026. District staff presented budget pressures tied to declining enrollment, reporting that the unrestricted portion of fund balance fell from $160 million to $120 million in FY26. The district forecast a $15 million FY27 shortfall and further enrollment-related losses in FY28. It proposed a salary freeze for FY27, citing enrollment declines and prior staffing reductions; PBA representatives objected and argued that officers should receive at least the 2.187% increase provided to some eligible teachers. The parties discussed contract proposals covering take-home vehicles, overtime, scheduling, evaluations, career ladders, leave, and canine provisions. No agreement or vote was reported; both sides planned further review and discussion.

The budget discussion also covered the November 3 one-mill referendum renewal, which the district said represents more than 10% of its operating budget. On cost-saving measures with procurement implications, staff said the district eliminated its Education Data Warehouse software and shifted functions to its student information system to avoid annual software costs, and is continuing to shift some special-education transportation from contracted providers to district buses. Officials said previously purchased electric buses were grant-funded and that no additional purchases were planned at that time. The transcript does not identify any contract award or new purchasing approval.