Cathy Richardson, Director of Support Personnel Services, introduced retirees who were in attendance.  The 99 employees retiring during the 2018-2019 school year collectively represent a total of 2,035 years of service in the district.  See attached list for employee names.

Kelly Watt, the district's Social Studies Specialist, recognized the teachers who were selected as the Social Studies Teachers of the Year. See agenda item detail for the names and categories of the winners who will represent Clay County District Schools.

James Otto addressed multiple topics primarily related to the Board of Clay County Commissioners.

Using the attached PowerPoint, Dr. Susan Legutko, Assistant Superintendent for Business Affairs, reviewed the district's proposed budget and emphasized that all figures listed are tentative and subject to change. She reviewed funding sources and proposed expenditures, noting that 81% of operating funds directly support compensation and benefits to employees.  The primary use of the one mill revenue is for Safety and Security and Dr. Legutko also noted that next year the district will receive no PECO dollars from the state for maintenance, renovations and/or repairs for existing facilities.  The school district's portion of the BCC sales tax referendum sunsets on December 31st unless renewed by the Board of County Commissioners.  

Dr. Michael Kemp, Assistant Superintendent for Operations, addressed deferred maintenance and facility needs. The average age of district facilities is 38 years old with 25% approaching 50 years or older.  Currently, 24 other districts have successfully launched a half-cent sales tax effort.  Dr. Kemp reviewed the "power of the penny" using an ED.F.I.R.S.T. (EDucation Facilities Infrastructure Restricted Sales Tax) campaign.  A half-cent will generate approximately $13,464,333 in one year.

Public Comments:

1. James Otto - supports
2. George Egan - supports
3. RT Glenn - supports
4. Lynn Sparks - supports
5. Rebecca Smith - supports
6. Mary Holtcamp - questions from the public
7. Angela Ledbetter - supports
8. Ken Willey - opposes
9. Christopher Trahan - supports
10. Victoria Kidwell - supports
11. Smitty Huffman - supports

Following public speakers, a short break was taken.  The meeting resumed at 8:57 p.m.  Mrs. Kerekes spoke first, stating this item will put the question to the voters. Unfunded mandates and cuts to public education dollars have necessitated the need for additional revenue sources.  Mrs. Bullock and Mrs. Studdard also spoke in support of the sales tax.  Mrs, Bolla and Mrs. Gilhousen expressed concern about taking the tax increase to a special referendum and favored holding off until the November 2020 general election.  If approved, an oversight committee will monitor revenue received and expended to ensure public trust.  

Mr. Bickner pointed out that in light of Mrs. Bolla's physical absence, as Chair, Mrs. Studdard was authorized to sign for Mrs. Bolla by permission if she so wished for her name to be included on the executed Resolution.  Mrs. Bolla confirmed that she would like her signature to be added to the Resolution.    

Mr. Bickner also stated that the employee in D2 has requested a hearing.  

Positive comments were made about the approval of the Resolution asking for the half-cent sales tax.  Board members wished everyone a happy and safe 4th of July.