Editor, The Beacon:

The Volusia County School Board’s recent approval of Superintendent Dr. Carmen Balgobin’s four-year contract, which includes an 8.7-percent salary increase to $280,000, a $500 monthly medical stipend, and a district car she can now park at her home, highlights a glaring issue — the irresponsible use of taxpayer dollars in a time when many Volusia property owners are struggling to make ends meet.

This contract is just one example of how the district’s $1.2 billion budget is being mismanaged. With property owners facing rising insurance premiums, skyrocketing costs of living, and increasing property taxes, decisions like these demonstrate a disconnect between the board and the community it serves.

Reducing unnecessary spending in the school district could provide meaningful relief to taxpayers while still maintaining educational quality. For instance, trimming administrative overhead and refocusing funds on direct classroom support would not only save money but also enhance student outcomes.

Instead of burdening property owners with a bloated budget, the district should be seeking efficiencies and returning savings to taxpayers. If the Volusia County School Board wants to build trust with the community, it should start by proving that it can responsibly manage the funds it already has.

Matt Johnson

Chair, Libertarian Party of Florida

DeLand