Schools Want $986.2M

5 percent increase from this year would add 62 teachers, give pay raises

County schools Superintendent Kevin M. Maxwell presented a nearly $1 billion spending plan yesterday that includes funding for 62 new teachers and provides $33.7 million for employee raises.

Maxwell's $986.2 million budget request for next year is about $49.5 million more than schools received this year and already is meeting with opposition from county officials.

But the superintendent said he's obligated to take care of school employees.

"I fully realize this will raise some eyebrows, but I refuse to bow to criticism and deviate from my belief that we have a moral, ethical and legal obligation to seek money from the county" for the pre-negotiated raises.

County Budget Officer John Hammond said he has already told school officials not to expect any more than the state required minimum increase to their budget. Hammond said that comes to about $5.5 million.

"The county has had to tighten its belt during these economic times," Hammond said. "The county isn't going to get pay increases. So for the schools to expect to get one is inconsistent."

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