It might only help for one year, but North Okanagan-Shuswap school district trustees were appreciative of the breathing room offered by a the use of ‘one-time dollars’ to balance their budget.
This year, the school district needed to cut $1.3 million from its budget.
To do that, trustees agreed Tuesday to hold back on the planned district technology plan and will put off buying computers, equipment and furniture to help balance the budget.
This meant only $500,000 was transferred to local capital, rather than the previously budgeted $1 million.
Savings were also realized by using $150,000 from the benefit premium holiday and reducing supplies and services budgets. This means the majority of student programs were protected, although there were reductions in the deaf and hard of hearing and the alternate programs.
“I think we scared the hell out of public and with this, we have no real worries now. We have time to consult and do all those things so we can find options that satisfy the public and trustees,” said trustee Bob Fowler.
Nicole Bittante, school secretary-treasurer, warned trustees they will be in the same position next year, and there won’t be the same funding options available.
“Next year, we will be in the same place. Next year we will be looking at programs," she said.”
Superintendent Glenn Borthistle noted the school district plans to begin its budget process earlier in the year to allow for more time to gather information for trustees and reach resolution on budget issues.