AUGUSTA, Ga. () – Richmond County Board of Education members are holding their first public meeting about the proposed school budget for fiscal year 2026.

The Chief Financial Officer, Bobby Smith, provided details about the budget, explaining why and where the money comes from and is used so that people can understand the recommendations.

“Trying to be very educational to teach them how school systems are funded. So that way they can kind of understand,” said Bobby Smith, Chief Financial Officer, Richmond County BOE.

According to Smith, 60 percent of funds come from the federal government, and 40 percent comes from taxpayers. This upcoming year, there is a proposed increase in the board’s contribution to teacher retirement and health insurance to help cover costs.  There was also a 461 decrease in student enrollment, which will result in proposed cuts to central office operating costs and a possible increase in taxpayer pay. 

“The presentation was very comprehensive,” said Lannis Hill, Taxpayer. “I thought it did break down the budget very well. I didn’t agree with some of the pay cuts, but we’ll see how it pans out.”

Smith says they are projecting that about $7 million in local funding will be needed but won’t know anything about millage rates until around August. He also said there would be no pay increase for teachers, but the current rate would remain the same to help fund the benefit increases.

“If you own property, that’s where those local taxes come from, so they do play a part in it, so we want to make sure they understand it,” said Smith.

After seeing the low turnout by parents and residents, Lannis Hill spoke to encourage people to attend the budget hearing to learn where and how their money is being spent.

“I hope that we get more public involvement. I hope more people actually come out for these meetings because they are educational,” said Hill.

The last public hearing will take place on June 10th, and the final decision is scheduled for June 24th. For a full breakdown, you can also find that on Richmond County’s Board of Education website.