Fayette School officials were already bracing for a $10 million deficit at the start of the current fiscal year, but this week brought more troubling news about the district's financial status.
Interim Executive Director of Financial Services Amy Smith told the board property tax revenue may come in far below expectations.
"The net effect is going to be if we do land at a $10 million deficit and we're not going to receive that additional $12 million in property taxes, then we have a $22 million shortfall," she said.
Asked about the ongoing budget setbacks and the suspension of Superintendent Demetrius Liggins, who is fighting to be reinstated, Gov. Andy Beshear said Thursday he believes it's time for both parties to sever ties.
"We are far past the point of no return where Fayette County Public Schools and Demetrus Liggins need to have a clean break. I think it would be better for both of them," he replied.
Meanwhile, the school board is also sifting through a long list of recommendations made by an outside audit firm.