School Budget Passes, but Unsafe Lighting at JCHS Football Stadium Could Put the Pinch on Funds
The Jefferson County Department of Education will bring an approved budget before the Jefferson County Budget Committee Monday. On Thursday evening the Jefferson County School Board approved the third budget proposal presented by the Department of Education. Earlier proposals were trimmed to reflect no increase in the maintenance of effort, the local match that is required by the State of Tennessee. The previous proposals also did not include any capital projects money, which some Board Members found problematic. Thursday’s proposal answered the requests of the School Board for cuts outside of salaries, textbooks and new buses, as well as $200,000 set aside for capital projects. The budget was approved 5-0 upon a motion from Chairman Jarnigan and 2nd by Board Member Vines. The Federal Projects Budget was also approved 5-0.
Presentation of the differentiated pay plan, as well as a more in depth explanation of the 20/20 Vision Program, were given at the meeting. Director of Facilities Phagan addressed what was classified as a pressing need for lighting repairs at the Jefferson County High School Football Stadium. Board Members received a letter from Maintenance Supervisor Steve Wolfenbarger that stated that he believes the lights at the Jefferson County High School Football Stadium to be unsafe due to wiring deterioration. Estimates to refurbish the lighting are between $132,000 and $177,000 according to Phagan. Purchasing a complete lighting system is estimated to cost between $185,000 and $210,000. The Board will address the issue at a called meeting on May 26, 2016.
In other action, the Board approved six policy changes on first reading, Federal Projects and Special Education Permission for the 2016/17 school year, and the TCPN Purchasing Network. They also approved a change order for the Lewis Group in the amount of $39,000 for JCHS and Food Service/General Purpose budget amendments.
