The Fayette County Public Schools Board met Monday night for more than five hours to discuss the budget. While officials say the budget is balanced, board and community members disputed the amount in the district's contingency fund, which is reportedly at $26.3 million.
Some, including Board Member Amanda Ferguson, argued that the amount is approximately $15.6 million, more than $10 million less. The discrepancy is allegedly due to overspending in the special revenue and food services fund. District leaders refuted the deficit, saying the number was incorrectly calculated.
Several members of the public called for a third-party investigation into the handling of FCPS finances instead of an internal investigation.
"Your net worth does not include your debts. You have a $12 million debt. You have a $1.3 million debt. This is basic accounting," said Matthew Vied during public comment.
"I'm still not sure where the $26.3 million came from," said board member Ferguson.
Superintendent Dr. Demitrus Liggins said he would share the findings of the internal investigation with the public once it is complete.
The board will meet again on September 22nd. The district must submit a balanced budget to the Board of Education and the Kentucky Department of Education by September 30th.