During a recent government meeting, significant discussions centered around the proposed fiscal year 2026 capital budget and the six-year capital improvement plan, which totals $204.7 million. Chief Operating Officer Bill Heiser and Director of Facilities Kyle Ruff presented a preliminary overview, highlighting key priorities including health and safety upgrades, security enhancements, and renovations to building systems.

The budget allocates $119.8 million for construction funding for three major school projects: a new Center of Applied Technology North, a new Old Mill High School, and a new Old Mill Middle School North. These projects are part of the long-awaited Old Mill Feeder System project. Additionally, the budget includes $5 million for kindergarten and pre-kindergarten additions, $4 million for classroom expansions, and $4 million for improvements to athletic stadiums.

A public workshop is scheduled for September 16, where further details will be shared, followed by a public board meeting on September 18. After board approval, the plan will be submitted to the state of Maryland for funding consideration as part of the overall fiscal year 2026 budget request to the county executive in February 2025.

The meeting also addressed personnel appointments and policy revisions, including updates to the representative student leadership policy and the employment of foreign nationals. Notably, the policy regarding students with known anaphylactic allergies was revised in response to recent legislative changes, emphasizing the need for careful management of food rewards in schools to protect students with allergies.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to enhancing educational facilities and ensuring student safety, with a clear roadmap for upcoming budget discussions and policy implementations.