Billings, Mont. – On Thursday, Nov. 12, the Billings school budget committee voted against recommending a contract proposal that would have sharply increased Superintendent Erwin Garcia’s compensation, according to KULR8. The plan sought to raise Garcia’s base salary from about $217,000 to about $270,000, add another $20,000 in annual compensation, and bring total pay to $290,000 before other benefits. It also would have kept Garcia in his position through June 2030.
Committee members and community members expressed criticism of the proposed raise. Critics questioned the size of the increase and raised concerns about fairness to other district employees and the district’s spending priorities. The written proposal argued that retaining Garcia would provide stable leadership and help the district stay competitive when hiring administrators.
One employee voiced personal disappointment, saying, “I don’t say that I love my job anymore. I don’t say it because decisions like this make me feel like this district doesn’t care very much about me, and it’s really hard to love a place like that,” Beth Verlanic, secretary at Burlington Elementary School, told KULR8.
A retired school employee compared the debate to past district conflicts, stating, “This is what happens. Failed levee, angry staff. Repeat, repeat, repeat. If this were a class, we’d be figuring out a different way to run this lesson,” Karen Moses said.
The budget committee’s review is only one step in the contract process. The full school board must still approve any changes, and the proposal has been sent back to negotiations for possible revision, KULR8 reported. Residents can expect further discussions as the district works toward a new agreement that balances leadership stability with fiscal responsibility.
What’s next: The full Billings school board will consider the revised contract proposal at a future meeting. Community members who wish to voice their opinions are encouraged to attend the upcoming board session, the date of which will be announced by the district.
Sources: kulr8.com
