By JAMES BELL
Hays Post

Following a review Aug. 8 of the 2107 fiscal year budget at the Hays USD 489 Board of Education meeting, a public hearing and vote are scheduled at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 22, in the Toepfer Board Room, 323 W. 12th Street.

During the review the administration the board heard the district plans on increasing funds that go to instruction by 18 percent over last year.

The district sought that increase, despite continued cuts in state funding.

“Our state revenues are up this year, that does include an increase in KPERS payments. Our federal revenue is up slightly, and our local revenue is down a little bit,” said Tracy Kaiser, executive director of finance and support services. “The main thing is we have $283 per student less revenue than we did last year.”

During tonight’s meeting the board is also set to hear recommendations for the approval of a bid for roofing above the library at Hays High School, the installation of security software and hardware throughout the schools with funds provided by a grant awarded to the USD 489 Foundation for Educational Excellence, and iPad purchases to keep up with increased enrollment.

The board will also discuss approving a 1.05 percent raise for staff not covered under the SEIU or the HNEA negotiated agreements last year.

Live video of the meeting will be available on Hays Post, courtesy USD 489.