FCPS superintendent Demetrus Liggins addresses contingency fund, budget cuts as district plans ahead

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – Fayette County Public Schools Superintendent Demetrus Liggins is speaking out about the district’s contingency fund and ongoing budget discussions as questions continue to surface about finances.

According to district officials, FCPS is currently operating under what they describe as a balanced budget for the school year, following the release of a draft budget earlier this year.

District leaders say more than $12 million has been cut from district office operations as part of ongoing efforts to manage costs while maintaining services for students and staff.

Superintendent Demetrus Liggins said the district is now moving toward its next major financial milestone — approving a tentative budget later this spring.

“You know, we passed our draft budget in January, and now we’re gearing up to pass our tentative budget this coming May,” Liggins said. “We’ll actually have several meetings with the board in order to discuss contingency and ways to increase that long term.”

FCPS officials say the district currently maintains a contingency fund of about $27 million, which is above the minimum amount required by the state. Leaders say that reserve is intended to help stabilize finances during uncertain times and provide flexibility as the district plans for future needs.

School board discussions on the tentative budget are expected to continue in the coming weeks.