Prior to
the start of each session of the Florida Legislature, the Volusia
County Council establishes its priorities. The list usually includes
favored infrastructure projects, money for social services, support
for arts and culture, etc.
But this
year is far different.
In a
radical departure from the past, the Volusia County Council has
thrown its political weight behind the plight of Volusia County
public schools which is faced with millions of dollars in budget
cuts. While public education does not fall within county
government’s scope of responsibilities, the County Council believes
a quality school system has everything to do with the county’s
future. It tops all other local priorities.
“We have
a great working relationship with Volusia County Schools,” said
Volusia
County Chair Frank Bruno. “Education is a priority for us. We know
that many of our
students some day will comprise our workforce and become our
community leaders. We need to give them the very best education
possible.”
Volusia
County Government has helped to lead lobbying efforts for education,
including trips to Tallahassee to encourage lawmakers to find ways
to ease the funding burden Volusia County Schools face.
Projected deficits for the coming school year have varied
considerably. That funding gap has been narrowed considerably.
However, it is based on transfers from areas such as transportation,
capital and instructional materials as well as use of federal
stabilization funding.
Even if
the state comes through, Volusia County schools still face a
shortfall. Add in
projected cost increases for health insurance, fuel, utilities and
charter schools and that could add to the general fund shortfall.
While
Volusia County School District officials wrestle with myriad funding
issues,
their ongoing partnerships with Volusia County Government are saving
time and
money.
“We work
together in many ways,” said Dr. Robert Moll, Volusia County
Schools’
Deputy Superintendent for Finance and Business Services. “And we are
exploring
additional ways where we can share or combine resources for the
benefit of both
entities.”
Efficiencies are being pursued at every level, including staffing,
energy conservation,
bus route consolidation and more. But making ends meet under this
scenario is difficult, especially while the Volusia County School
Board is taking actions to increase its reserve fund to the
state-mandated 3 percent ($12 million) with an eventual goal of a
5-percent reserve.
The
county often purchases printing through Volusia school facilities,
keeping those facilities productive and generating revenues. The
county and the school district work together on constructing new
infrastructure that serves schools and the community, often sharing
the costs. The two organizations collaborate on the purchase of
diesel fuel, which is another substantial money-saving practice.
Other
possible joint efforts being considered include facility
maintenance, administrative services, insurance and purchasing of
vehicle parts.
