Jacksonville City School Board Holds 2nd FY 2024-25 Budget Hearing, Reviews New Performing Arts Building Progress

Jacksonville, AL – The Jacksonville City School Board held its regular meeting on September 9, 2024, which included the second FY24-25 Budget Hearing. The meeting, held at 5:30 p.m., opened with a prayer led by Dr. Barber and the Pledge of Allegiance. Four members were present, with the board hoping for full attendance at the next meeting.

Approval of Agenda and Minutes

The board swiftly moved to approve the agenda and the minutes from the August 27, 2024, meeting. Both items passed without opposition, marking a smooth start to the session.

Public Comments

No public comments were made on the agenda items, allowing the board to proceed to the main focus of the meeting—reviewing and finalizing the FY 2024-2025 budget.

Second Hearing of FY 2024-2025 Budget

The board revisited the FY 2024-2025 proposed budget during the second hearing, with no changes reported since the last meeting. The school system’s financial director, Mrs. Sarah Blout, informed the board that no questions or concerns had been raised. She expressed readiness to move forward, and the board appreciated her hard work. A motion to approve the budget passed unanimously.

Superintendent’s Report and Capital Plan

The principal of Jacksonville High School, Dr. Waits, provided a virtual tour of the new Performing Arts building, offering a detailed walkthrough of the facility’s layout. The tour highlighted key features, including a band rehearsal hall with soundproof practice rooms, uniform storage, and a dedicated jazz room, among other areas. The building, nearing completion, is a source of excitement for students and staff alike.

The board approved the Jacksonville City Schools’ FY 2024-2025 capital plan after the tour. Dr. Barber noted three new projects: the Schneider electrical contract, replacing older HVAC systems, and adding an additional roadway around Kittystone. The superintendent also mentioned some difficulty in updating the website but reassured the board that completed plans would be removed soon.

Revised Job Description for Mental Health Services Coordinator

The board approved a revised job description for the Mental Health Services Coordinator, aligning the job description with the number of working days. Ms. McCombs, who was hired in the previous board meeting, had her days adjusted from 207 to 187, reflecting her hiring terms.

Personnel Items and Supplemental Schedules

The board approved several personnel items, including filling positions for the upcoming school year. In addition, discussions were held regarding the supplemental schedule, which assigns stipends to certain roles. While no salaries were adjusted, it was noted that booster organizations would contribute to paying some of the supplemental charges.

Next Board Meeting

The board confirmed the next meeting date for October 24, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. Members acknowledged the long gap between meetings, but agreed to reconvene unless an earlier special meeting is required.

Board Member Comments

Board members praised the capital plan, budget work, and the virtual tour of the Performing Arts building. There was special recognition for local lawmakers, including House Representative Robertson and Senator Keith Kelley, for their recent donations to the school system, adding to the excitement surrounding ongoing projects.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to adjourn.

This meeting marked significant progress on multiple fronts for Jacksonville City Schools, highlighting budget finalizations, capital improvements, and continued developments for the benefit of students and staff.

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