The Virginia Beach School Board met Tuesday night and voted 8‑2 to recommend that $3 million in reversion funds be directed toward school‑division needs rather than the cross‑country trail the city had proposed. The recommendation now moves to the Virginia Beach City Council, which holds final authority over the money.
Background on the reversion funds
The $3 million is part of a larger $5 million pool of reversion funds. These funds represent budgetary leftovers from the school division’s previous fiscal year that are returned to the city for discretionary use. Board members previously agreed to allocate $2 million of the pool to replace the division’s aging payroll system, leaving the remaining $3 million as the subject of debate.
Board’s rationale
Board members emphasized the importance of addressing immediate, tangible needs within the schools. Several trustees cited the need to replace aging school buses, upgrade HVAC systems in aging facilities, and create a dedicated park for students with special needs. “Our priority must be the safety and well‑being of our students,” said at‑large member Sharon Felton, who warned that diverting the funds to a trail could strain the board’s relationship with the city council.
Superintendent Dr. Robertson echoed the sentiment, noting that “it’s likely in our benefit to play ball, so to speak,” and urged the board to consider the long‑term partnership with city officials. Board member Matt Cummings introduced a substitute motion that specifically recommended the city council allow the school board to apply the $3 million to school‑division projects, including bus replacement, rather than the trail. The motion carried the same 8‑2 margin.
City’s proposal
The city had requested that the funds be used to develop a cross‑country trail that would serve both residents and the school division. Proponents argued the trail would provide recreational opportunities and promote healthy lifestyles for families across Virginia Beach. However, board members expressed concern that the trail would not address the most pressing operational challenges facing the schools.
Public reaction
During the meeting, community members voiced strong opinions on both sides. Some residents praised the board’s focus on core school needs, while others lamented the missed chance for a new community trail. District 1 board member Rose Dwyer questioned whether the city council was hearing the same concerns that the board and local families were raising.
Next steps
The recommendation now heads to the Virginia Beach City Council, which will hold a public hearing in the coming weeks. Residents will have an opportunity to comment before the council makes a final decision on the allocation of the $3 million.
Regardless of the outcome, the board’s vote underscores a broader commitment to prioritize essential educational resources and maintain a cooperative relationship with city officials while safeguarding the interests of Virginia Beach families.
Original reporting: WTKR News 3 (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
