The Chatham County Board of Commissioners held a meeting on May 28, 2025, to discuss significant budgetary expansions and adjustments for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting focused on various financial implications affecting classified staff, operational costs, and capital outlay.

The first major topic addressed was the enhanced compensation for classified staff, which is a response to a new state pay scale. This adjustment is part of an unfunded mandate aimed at alleviating salary compaction issues stemming from a previous $15 minimum wage law passed by the General Assembly. The estimated cost for this compensation increase is approximately $1.4 million.

Additionally, the state budget includes a 3% raise for classified employees, following a previous 4% increase over the current fiscal year. This cumulative raise reflects a commitment to improving employee compensation amidst rising operational costs.

The meeting also highlighted a significant increase in health insurance costs, which are projected to rise by nearly $550 per employee, bringing the total cost for a single employee's health insurance to $8,035. This increase is notable compared to previous years when costs were around $5,000.

Operational costs are expected to rise by an anticipated 3%, primarily due to increases in utility expenses and insurance related to cybersecurity and property coverage.

A key point of discussion was the request for an increase in capital outlay, which has not been adjusted in over five years. The proposed changes include raising the average teacher supplement to $2,700 per certified staff member, positioning Chatham County Schools as the leader in teacher supplements statewide. This request amounts to $3.68 million, which is $2.7 million more than what was initially presented in January. This increase also accounts for rising retirement rates and associated benefits.

Lastly, the board discussed the financial responsibilities related to charter schools, which currently represent about 12% of Chatham County Schools' budget. This aspect is expected to increase the funding requirement from $300,000.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to enhancing employee compensation and addressing rising operational costs while planning for future educational funding needs. The board will continue to evaluate these proposals as they prepare for the upcoming fiscal year.