Unfortunately, our school district lost a golden opportunity to downsize its massive administrative structure and eliminate ineffective programs in the FY2012 budget. It has not been forthcoming explaining the budget, instead explaining the “good news” that it will have a budget surplus this year, even after rehiring everyone they “laid off” and giving raises from 3-7%.
It is irresponsible to give significant raises right now which are a continuing cost. To take $2.3 million out of Fund Balance (the savings account) means they have to make this up next year, plus next year’s $2.3 million, and so on. The state has already notified districts there will be proration, meaning state formulas for funding will be adjusted downward this biennium as the economy continues its freefall. While many districts have announced a salary freeze for the biennium Hays is giving raises and adding programs!
We have a $1.2 million surplus? This excludes the $2.3 million transfer out of Fund Balance to make the debt payment. In other words, on a cash flow basis, the district will spend $1.2 million more in expenses than it receives in revenue.
This is the same district that told us in 2008 to vote for the bonds because there would be no tax rate hike. Bull. Now, they are not holding to this promise either. They also financed the 2008 bonds using huge repayment deferrals, financing the majority of the issue with interest only payments for 22 years!
The majority of the district’s professional staff does not reside in the district. Unlike us, they enjoy tuition free school choice for their children and subsidized day-care facilities on campus! We don’t mind fair wages and benefits, but they have to be fair to taxpayers as well. There is no shortage of qualified certified applicants eager to teach the courses in their certification. Retention is not an issue.
When all that is left in Hays CISD are school employees and entitlement recipients dependent on the district’s ever expanding safety net, who will be left to pay the bills? Once again, the district has not been totally honest with you, the taxpayer.
Bryce Bales
Manchaca
