The Philomath School District’s need to fill vacancies on its Budget Committee has been a challenge this fall with a call to volunteers receiving little interest. However, in a positive turn last week, one of two available positions was filled when Thom King stepped forward for a seat at the table.
King, Oregon State University Student Health Services director of finance and operations, has lived in the district for nine years and has two children in the local school system. He has held numerous executive-level positions involving budget creation, management and presentation.
“I don’t know if we could find a better, more qualified person for the Budget Committee,” Philomath School Board Chair Tom Klipfel said.
Committee positions carry a three-year term that expires in June 2028. The School Board appointed King to the position on a unanimous vote at its Nov. 13 meeting.
“My goal as a Budget Committee member would be to be an advisor of sorts, helping by talking things through to make sure everyone understands each other and that the priorities of the budget match the strategic goals of the district,” King wrote in his candidate information sheet.
All five board members are a part of the committee along with five community members. One position remains vacant. Anyone interested in the remaining vacancy can contact Jennifer Griffith, district business manager, at jennifer.griffith@philomath.k12.or.us or 541-929-3169.