Times Observer Photo by Monica Keller Shown are superintendent Gary Weber and board member Mr. Sullivan with Mr. Mangione and Mr. Brown on either side.

Monday night’s Warren County School Board Committee meeting turned contentious during the public comment period when Julia Foster directly confronted board members over what she claimed was a lack of transparency regarding an internal investigation.

Foster questioned board member Daniel Sullivan about his involvement in an internal investigation related to a complaint she filed the previous month against Gary Weber, district superintendent.

“I was wondering and wanting to ask specific people questions,” she said. “Were you aware, Mr. Sullivan, of an internal investigation of my complaint last month against Mr. Weber? Were you a part of that investigation?”

Sullivan responded, “I don’t think so.”

Foster pushed further, demanding answers about who conducted the investigation.

“Okay. Who was? Who investigated this? You and Mr. Weber — who the complaints about — who did?” she asked, adding, “Everybody can know. I don’t care. I’ve been transparent. You’re the one who hasn’t.”

She also accused Sullivan of removing or censoring her comments on his election page.

“Discipline is needed back in our schools and teachers who are backed based on morally what is right and wrong.” Foster said

At that point, board member John Wortman stepped in.

“Mrs. Foster, can we please keep this about the Warren County School District?” he said.

Mrs. Foster replied, “No, it’s accountability on you all.”

“I understand that,” Wortman responded, “but we are here to meet about the Warren County School District.”

The argument then came to an end and business proceeded as usual. The board approved a resolution to exonerate the tax collector from collecting school taxes on two properties, parcels WN-004-619700-007 and WN-004-619700-113, following a request from the Warren County Board of Appeals.

They also continued discussions on the 2025-26 budget process, indicating that more finalized figures may be available by the next board meeting.

Board members discussed and recommended approval of an agreement between Family Services of Warren County Inc. (FSWC) and the Warren County School District (WCSD). Under the contract, Family Services would provide Employee Assistance Program services, including behavioral health support, to district employees and their dependents.

Another agreement presented for approval would allow the Warren/Forest Higher Education Council to use district facilities for adult education courses during non-school hours, expanding community access to educational opportunities.