State litigation continues to raise insurance rates
CHENEY – At the latest Cheney Public Schools board meeting held on May 8, concerns were raised regarding a dip in enrollment, particularly notable in elementary schools. Jamie Reed, responsible for the Financial and Enrollment Report, shed light on the situation, projecting a flat year for enrollment growth.
“Under a lot of different models, it looks like next year will be a flat year, they will grow eventually, we are just lagging,” Reed remarked, underlining the anticipation for eventual growth despite the current downturn.
Despite this enrollment setback, Reed high lighted continued growth within the district, particularly in comparison to neighboring Airway Heights.
“Cheney will grow more than Airway Heights,” Reed affirmed, citing Highland Village as a focal point for expansion.
Financially, the district is in a stable position, with a significant fund balance bolstered by April tax collections.
“Having that fund will help us next year,” Reed noted, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy financial reserve.
However, financial challenges persist, with insurance remaining a substantial cost alongside employee salaries.
Reed emphasized the necessity of managing these costs efficiently. “We can’t afford in surance to increase 40% every year,” Reed expressed, pointing to the prevalence of litigation involving public schools in Washington state.
Addressing upcoming budgetary milestones, Reed outlined plans for a budget work session scheduled for June 12, followed by a public hearing on June 26.
Additionally, bargaining sessions are slated through out May and June, with a proposed $1.7 million budget featuring a $400k increase from the current fiscal year.
Concerns were also raised regarding the Climate Commitment Impact Estimate, which is anticipated to increase natural gas costs by $42k annually.
“We’ve paid $320k this year,” Reed revealed.
Clarifying misconceptions about certain fees, Reed emphasized that they are not taxes but rather contributions aimed at supporting schools. “It’s not a tax, it’s a fee – part of this fee will go back into schools,” Reed clarified.
Clare is an Eastern Washington University graduate and a reporter at Free Press Publishing.
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