Hamilton County commissioners on Thursday heard from Department of Education officials that they still are trying to figure out how to close a $14 million budget shortfall.
Superintendent Jim Scales, whose contract is being bought out by board members, said schools officials approved a continuation budget rather than make several controversial cuts he had proposed.
“The budget we presented was balanced, but there were some very, very steep cuts,” Scales said.
Commissioners asked few questions. Commissioner Tim Boyd said he was unhappy with the size of the central office and that his constituents had to pay fees and buy supplies for their children to attend school. Commissioner Fred Skillern wanted to know “where the shortfall would be spent” if the county had the money.
Afterward, Chairman Larry Henry said commissioners should have more information by June 15 when the state Legislature adjourns. By then school officials should know how much money they’ll receive from the state and whether the state will approve raises for teachers.