As the first order of business, the board members took oath for their three-year terms, including newly elected members Daniel Lee and Kimberly Melman, along with Dr. Mariya Thompson. The election of board officers followed immediately, resulting in Daniel Lee securing the position of board president and Kimberly Melman as vice president. The board emphasized the importance of these roles in leading the district towards achieving its educational and operational goals.

The meeting then turned its attention to financial management, a critical aspect of the district’s operations. During the public comments section, questions were raised concerning the district’s receipt of federal reimbursement from FEMA, the breakdown of reserve balances, and the utilization of these funds to reduce debt service. In response, a board member confirmed that FEMA reimbursements had been received in full and were placed in a deferred revenue account. The board also acknowledged additional funds for approved mitigation projects. The clarification provided insight into the district’s prudent fiscal strategies and underscored the importance of responsible financial stewardship.

Further financial discussions revealed that the capital reserve was projected to decrease to $1. 3 million after funding various district projects. Superintendent Bertolini elaborated on the financial reserves, including the excess surplus, which was expected to be replenished by approximately $1 million from the surplus of the previous fiscal year. He also addressed the unemployment fund’s integration into the general fund due to new accounting standards. A notable financial action was the board’s withdrawal of $1. 9 million from the capital reserve to pay down debt on a bond referendum, an operation that was confirmed to be statutorily permissible.

The board members took a moment to express their gratitude for the accomplishments of the previous year and welcomed Dr. Mariya Thompson to the board. The meeting continued with the approval of consent agenda items and the announcement that committees would be re-established in the subsequent meeting.

Another item discussed was the presentation by Christian Choy about his Eagle Scout project, which aims to create and display memorial portrait banners for veterans in Leonia. The board members unanimously supported the initiative. Superintendent Bertolini offered to help promote the project via the district’s communication channels to ensure its visibility and success.

President Daniel Lee concluded the meeting with a statement of appreciation for the board’s support and conveyed his enthusiasm for the strategic planning and negotiations in the upcoming year. The board members then entered a closed session to discuss personnel matters.