June 5, 2020 at 10:00 AM - Jackson-Madison County School Board Special Called Meeting

Discussion:  The Board Members thanked the hard work by Ray Washington, Dr. Marlon King, Central Office Staff and the Budget Committee to have a budget prepared to present to the County Commission next week.  The Board understands that the reductions are not an easy decision but that the budget reflects the students and faculty in mind.  

Jim Campbell mentioned several concerns with the proposed budget.  Mr. Campbell wanted the full Board to have a clear understanding that what is being proposed maybe worse than expected with the cost from COVID-19 to open school in the fall of 2020.  Ray Washington stated that the system is in contact with the CDC and State for guidance and that Dr. King along with others are reviewing how to open school.  

AJ Massey asked, how will the County Commission react to the proposed budget from the system?  Ray Washington mentioned that they may question a few items but that they have worked with the County to make revisions to the budget.  Jim Campbell mentioned that there are still too many unknown expenses to come and that everyone is stressed financially.  Mr. Washington mentioned that they have the CARE ACT to use for expenses but the cost past the CARE ACT is unknown.  Holly Kellar mentioned that the system may need to ask the Board for approval of money through Budget Amendments at a later date.  

With the document Education Capital #177 the wording of $250,000.00 of fund balance is designated to support a track and field at JCM was removed per a consensus from the Board.  Jame Johnson mentioned that the $250,000.00 would be placed in the Fund Balance for further expenditures.  The Board will continue to work and not have a depleted Fund Balance.