New Hanover County Schools says it can absorb $1.9M in added state budget costs
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — New Hanover County Schools says it does not expect to request additional funding from the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners after North Carolina’s final state budget created nearly $1.9 million in unexpected local costs.
The district says it prepared for potential changes during the budget process and identified operational savings to help offset the increased expenses.
The added costs include an increase in the state employer retirement contribution rate, which rose to 26.10% from the 25.67% rate included in the district’s adopted budget. The state’s estimated health insurance rate remained in line with NHCS projections.
Superintendent Dr. Christopher Barnes said the district’s planning efforts will allow it to cover the additional costs without seeking more county funding.
NHCS also thanked county commissioners for approving an additional $885,495 for the district’s Pre-K program. The funding will allow the district to use Title I carryover funds for eligible Title I schools, including support for increased personnel costs.
