Board approves revised finance goal to require revised budget approval process emphasizing transparency

The Englewood Board of Education agreed in a poll to revise its district finance goal to include explicit language calling for a revised budget approval process with greater transparency and meaningful input from the community and board.

The revised goal language adopted informally reads in substance: by June 2026 the district will align 100 percent of financial and capital resource allocations with strategic goals and revise the budget approval process to include greater transparency and meaningful input from the community and board. Board Member Rachel proposed the change after multiple members said transparency and meaningful board input were missing in the most recent budget cycle.

The board also confirmed that Mr. Steinmetz, the district’s new business administrator, will lead an August 4 meeting dedicated to the budget process. Board members described the 2024–25 budget process as “rocky,” with missed timelines for finance committee work and late circulation of materials; several members emphasized the need for a clear calendar and timetable. Board Secretary (not named) confirmed the district is required to submit a budget schedule for CUSAC and record it in the minutes.

A poll of members present and remote showed a majority in favor of the new language; the chair said the language will be shared with Dr. Hazleton and included in a drafted resolution for a future regular meeting where a formal vote will occur. The board did not take a formal roll‑call vote at the special meeting; the change was advanced by consensus/poll to be formalized later.

Board members asked for specific next steps: Steinmetz and administration will provide a calendar and proposals for an improved approval process at the August 4 session, and the board requested written language for the goal change to be circulated before the resolution is drafted.