by Joy Warren
The Bladen County Board of Education met Monday evening for a special called meeting. The Board heard from Mrs. Sharon Penny, Finance Director, as she shared the proposed Budget for the 2018/2019 Fiscal Year. Penny informed the Board that the State has not given the LEA any information concerning salary raises for certified staff. She included a 5% raise which will increase next year’s budget by $150,000. The proposal also shows a reduction of $100,000 from the Central Office and a decrease of $197,000 for 5 clerical and 1 custodial positions. According to the Duke Power increase of 19%, the budget will increase by $160,000 for power. Emereau Charter School has indicated that they will be enrolling an additional 180 students which will increase the payments to the school ($1300 per student for the year). There were 298 students from the Bladen County Public Schools that transferred to Emereau last school year. Overall, the Budget for next school year is $902,000 increase over last school year.
Dr. Taylor, Superintendent, reminded the Board that the Bladen County Commissioners have been reminded that even though there may be a reduction of ADM numbers for Bladen County LEA, the County is still responsible for all students in Bladen County, whether they are in public or charter schools.
Chairman Rozier called for the vote. The proposal was approved 4 to 1 with Dennis Edwards casting the sole opposing vote. The Budget proposal will now go to the Bladen County Commissioners for their approval.
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