Laura Brown

This document is the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act ESSER III-LEA Application for Jenkins County School Systems, outlining the planned use of federal funds to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The plan prioritizes COVID-19 mitigation, improving reading and math proficiency, and includes evidence-based interventions such as extended school year programs, summer learning opportunities, high-frequency tutoring, and virtual learning. It also details facilities improvements to enhance social distancing, provides for mental and physical health services, and supports professional development and supplemental learning opportunities for all students, with a focus on at-risk populations. The overall aim is to ensure a safe learning environment and accelerate academic progress for students.

The board discussed property digest assessments, including concerns over previous valuation errors and their financial impact. Additionally, the session involved a detailed review of the proposed budget, specifically focusing on potential staffing changes for EMS services and the calculation of projected tax revenues from various sources. Suggestions were made to adjust departmental budgets to address the current deficit, with finalized revisions to be presented at a later date.

The Board discussed and adopted the County Operating Budget for 2023/2024, totaling $18,683,669 with $7,800,479 for the General Fund. The Board also approved the County's millage rate of 7.695 and the combined millage rate of 21.695. Furthermore, the Board authorized a refund of $77,643.62 to Atlantic Waste Services, representing the remaining balance of their landfill permit application fee after expenses.

The Board of Commissioners adopted the Solid Waste Management Ordinance and discussed budget highlights for the upcoming fiscal year. A new Credit Card Policy and a proposed Credit Card Program from Queensborough National Bank and Trust were presented, with the program proposal receiving approval pending policy review. Additionally, the Board conducted the first reading of a proposed Timber Harvesting Ordinance to align with new state regulations. Finally, the Board held an executive session to address a real estate matter.

The public hearing was held to allow the public to review, provide input, and ask questions regarding the proposed 2023-2024 County Budget. A specific inquiry was addressed concerning the purpose of two accounts listed under Unallocated Expenses, which were clarified as line items for contingencies and unexpected expenses.