Budget

[David Badanes]

There seems to be a disagreement about how a Board of Ed should approach the Superintendent's proposed Budget.

Some Trustees state that the Superintendent proposes a Budget and that the Board can modify (add/delete) any and all Budget items and assuming a majority of Board members agree, that any modifications would go into the final Budget to be voted on by the Public.  Of course, all Budget discussions would be in an Open Meeting.

Other Trustees state that the Superintendent drafts the Budget, and although the Board can ask questions about different Budget items, that it is not for the Board to modify.

What is NYSSBA's advice?  What do other Boards typically do?

[David Fenlong]

I agree that this a shared responsibility. The BOE should provide goals and direction that help shape the budget. Through the administrative level, building principals and with data (both current and historical) usually our preliminary budget is put together. The BOE is made aware of any red flags, glaring shortfalls or anything of surprise. The BOE then can question, ask for clarification and even change the budget if they feel it is not supportive of their goals, centered around the safety and education of our scholars and is not a budget they can support on behalf of the communities interests.

[Terry Ann Carbone]

Three of our BOE members are part of an on going budget committee. We are very involved and all recommended options are discussed. Our budget of coarse has been adopted. In light of the potential fiscal crisis we are now working with the Superintendent regarding potential cuts or changes to the approved budget for this up and coming school year.