USDB reports positive closeout; superintendent to propose SPEM spend plan

Deborah Jacobson, USDB chief financial presenter, told the State Board that USDB closed the fiscal year with a positive balance and "a little over a $100,000 left." She said the agency left the $3,000,000 contingency untouched and tightened controls to identify critical needs.

Board members asked how the carryforward would be used. Member Earl pressed that the board avoid using one-time funds to create ongoing positions, saying, "If you are looking at using it for FTEs, it's not wise," referencing last year's staffing consequences. Jacobson said staff will evaluate options, including fee structures for outreach services and an October legislative request, and that "the carry forward is onetime funding, so it can really only be looked at for onetime cost at this point." The superintendent will present a SPEM plan for the board's October meeting to allocate the remaining funds.

The presentation signaled a narrowed set of priorities for USDB's legislative ask; Superintendent Darren previewed a broader $2.7 million legislative request tied to identified critical needs and capital requests. Board members indicated the carryforward and the legislative package will be considered together when members review priorities next month.