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Reynoldsburg Schools prepares for state budget possibilities
Changes to the Reynoldsburg School Board are coming as the district continues to deal with financial burdens. Superintendent Steve Dackin said the district is closely watching the situation at the state level that shows possible indications of a $851 million "hole in the state budget."
If the state is not able to fill the hole, school districts could see massive cuts, he said.
"We are talking Draconian cuts for Reynoldsburg should this happen," Dackin said at the Dec. 15 school board meeting.
In addition to the already planned $3-4 million in cuts the district currently faces, an additional $2.8 in immediate cuts would have to be sought.
"It's unfathomable how we would come up with places to cut," Dackin said.
The board agreed to layoff five custodial positions effective Jan. 1, in addition to a spending freeze put in place at the November School Board meeting.
The district also passed a resolution to move money around as needed to cover a possible shortage that would prevent the district from being able to afford payroll in January.
District Treasurer Tammy Miller said while the movement of the money is a precautionary step, it is better to be prepared in case there is a need.
Funds from real estate taxes and state funding have come in early, making the January budget look more stable, she said.
"In January, we should be OK," Miller said.
Also at the meeting, Reynoldsburg City School Board members wished farewells to two board members who were voted out of office in the last election.
After 14 years of service to the district, School Board President Cheryl Max has adjourned her last board meeting.
"Cheryl has in every aspect of her life focused on children," Board Member Mary Burcham said. "We are really going to miss her."
Board Member Chip Martin read a prepared statement as a farewell to Board Member Jim Slonaker, who has also completed his final duties as board member.
"Jim has had a clear commitment and dedication to the students of Reynoldsburg City Schools, " Martin said.
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