The most urgent matter was the upcoming capital project levy referendum for the Morehead Public School District, presented by Superintendent Brian Lunick. He outlined the school district’s severe financial challenges, emphasizing the need for community support in the November 5 ballot. The district faces a significant projected shortfall of approximately $9.5 million due to funding structures that have not kept pace with inflation and rising costs.

Lunick highlighted the discrepancy between the district’s needs and its current funding. Special education expenses alone exceed revenues by nearly $9.6 million annually, requiring the general fund to cover the gap. Additionally, the operating levy renewed in 2016 generates about $1.7 million annually, lower than comparable districts, which average around $1,800 per student. Lunick stressed, “Bonds are for buildings and levies are for learning,” clarifying the necessity of the capital projects levy to address infrastructure and technology needs that the current operating funds cannot meet.

The referendum aims to secure additional revenue that is important for maintaining educational quality and infrastructure. Without new revenue or adjustments in expenditures, the district’s unassigned fund balance, currently at 2.23%, could dwindle by fiscal year 2028. Lunick’s detailed breakdown of financial challenges included comparisons with other districts, revealing that Morehead’s financial structure is notably less favorable in terms of revenue generation from levies.

The Superintendent’s presentation was met with questions about how the state adjusts funding based on pupil units. He explained that a recent legislative session had introduced a 2% inflation adjustment, but budgeting conservatively remains essential due to fluctuations in student populations. The commissioners and the public expressed concern about the implications for educational quality and community investment if the referendum fails.

Next, the board discussed the comprehensive Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan, focusing on infrastructure upgrades and maintenance. Notable projects include bridge replacements and pavement preservation. One key project involves the replacement of a bridge just south of Comto, which has been reduced to an 8-ton weight limit. The county has secured bridge bonding for this project as part of broader efforts to enhance road safety and functionality.

Another project is the replacement of a bridge on Casassa 14 southwest of Glendon, which had not garnered any bids during the spring bidding period. Plans to re-advertise this project were noted, with federal and local state aid funding secured. Additionally, a concrete pavement repair project on Casa 11 aims to improve the longevity of the concrete surface through diamond grinding and joint repair, which will also reduce carbon emissions due to decreased vehicle fuel consumption.

The board emphasized the importance of equitable distribution of projects across the county, addressing concerns that the eastern part of Clay County might be neglected compared to the western part. Commissioners highlighted the necessity of ensuring safe transport of commodities from the eastern region to the metro area, particularly during gravel season on roads like Casa 26, which were noted to be dangerous.

Further discussion included the approval of a five-year contract with TCP Software for scheduling services within the sheriff’s office and correctional center. The contract locks in a price of $4,158 per year for five years, representing a cost-saving measure compared to annual contracts. This move was seen as a strategic decision to manage long-term expenses effectively.

Another notable topic was the continuation of the successful employee referral program, which has bolstered recruitment efforts since its inception on July 15, 2022. The program incentivizes current employees to refer new hires with financial rewards, resulting in the recruitment of 51 employees and an 86.2% retention rate. The board unanimously approved the continuation of this program into 2025, recognizing its effectiveness in addressing staffing shortages amidst a competitive job market.

In addition to these discussions, the board approved several permits, including one for an equine therapy facility and another for a home-based saddlery business, both of which received community support. The approval of a one-lot commercial subdivision intended to support a storage business was also granted, aligning with the county’s rural character objectives.

Reports from various committee meetings were presented, covering topics such as public health, mental health services, and budget planning. Commissioner updates included discussions on the need for a full-time assistant County Administrator.