**LIVERPOOL, NY** – The Liverpool Central School District Board of Education has hit the pause button on the final adoption of the 2026-2027 budget, deciding late Monday to delay the formal vote for two weeks rather than move forward immediately. During a meeting that stretched past 9:00 p.m., the board unanimously agreed to table the approval of the $170.5 million spending plan. Board Member Jecenia Bresett made the motion to table, with a second from Alexandra Gyder. The vote carried 8-1, with Board Member Daniel McKeever casting the lone dissenting vote. The delay means the public will have to wait until the board’s next gathering on April 20 to see the final tax levy numbers and budget adoption. The budget was presented as the "Final Budget" during the meeting's presentations, but the board decided more time was needed before locking it in. "We need to ensure every dollar is accounted for correctly," Board Member Stacey Chilbert said during the discussion. The decision to delay came after a public comment period where residents voiced concerns. Jenny Kuester spoke directly to the board regarding budget pressures facing families. "As a parent, I have serious concerns about where this budget is heading," Kuester said. The budget is the single most important document the board produces, determining the property tax levy for the coming year and funding for everything from teacher salaries to building maintenance. A Budget Public Hearing is already scheduled for May 7. **Reserve Fund Adjusted** In a significant financial move, the board voted to alter the district’s savings strategy. Board Member Matthew Jones moved to amend a resolution establishing a "Reserve Fund for Liability." The original proposal set the fund at $1.5 million, but Jones successfully moved to slash that amount to $500,000. The amendment passed unanimously, followed by a unanimous vote to approve the reduced reserve fund. Reserve funds are essentially savings accounts that allow districts to pay for unforeseen expenses, such as legal claims or accidents, without raising taxes or disrupting the educational program. By reducing this particular reserve, the board limits the amount of cash set aside specifically for liability contingencies. **Students and Clubs** The board did move forward with one student-related initiative, unanimously approving the creation of a new student organization. Board Member Alexandra Gyder introduced the motion to approve the "Youth Alive Club," which was seconded by Kimberly Martin. The motion passed with full support from the nine-member board. District leadership was in full attendance, including Superintendent Richard Chapman. The board also recognized Morgan Road Middle School with the POOLS Award, though specific details regarding the award were not elaborated on in the agenda. **Capital Projects and Calendar** Updates were provided regarding the district's ongoing capital project, with representatives from Ashley McGraw Architects and Campus Construction Management addressing the board. These updates are critical as the district manages renovations and repairs across its campus. Additionally, the board held a discussion on adjustments to the 2025-2026 school calendar and reviewed the roles of building liaisons. **What Happens Next** The delay pushes the final budget adoption to the April 20 meeting, scheduled for 6:00 p.m. at the District Office. Residents looking to speak on the budget directly can mark their calendars for the Budget Public Hearing on May 7 at 5:30 p.m., which will be immediately followed by the regular board meeting.