The Charleston County School District (CCSD) Audit and Finance Committee convened on April 2, 2025, to discuss key budget considerations for the upcoming fiscal year 2026. A significant topic of discussion was the potential adjustment of board member compensation, which currently stands at $9,600 for regular members and $10,800 for the chair. Research presented during the meeting indicated that CCSD's board pay lags behind similar districts, such as Horry and Greenville Counties. The committee is considering including funding for this adjustment in the budget, but any changes would require a separate policy amendment and two readings by the board.

In addition to board pay, the committee explored the possibility of hiring a legislative liaison to facilitate communication with the state delegation, as well as the need for travel stipends for board members. Currently, each member receives $1,666 annually for travel, and discussions are underway about whether this amount should be increased or adjusted to better support attendance at professional development events.

The meeting also set the stage for upcoming budget discussions, with plans for a special called meeting on April 23 to finalize details before the first reading of the budget on April 28. This timeline aims to provide ample opportunity for board members to review the budget before it is presented for approval, ensuring a smoother implementation process.

Overall, the committee's discussions reflect a commitment to enhancing board operations and ensuring that members are adequately supported in their roles, which ultimately impacts the governance of the school district and its ability to serve the community effectively. The next steps will involve further deliberation on these topics, with the goal of aligning board compensation and support with the needs of the district and its stakeholders.