The Rowan-Salisbury Board of Education and the Rowan County Board of Commissioners are turning over a new leaf this budget season, and will meet for a dialogue on the school system’s budget Wednesday.

“We’re trying to change the budget process so its friendlier and less contentious,” said Josh Wagner, chairman of the school board.

“It’s just something different,” he said, adding that the retreat format will allow the school system to clearly explain what their needs are and why. It also allows the commissioners to ask specific questions.

“Both sides, I think, saw it as an opportunity to have conversation,” said Chief Financial Officer Tara Trexler

State funding is in a downward trend, and the school system has recognized a number of needs, including teacher pay increases, safety repairs and capital needs.

This coming year looks like it will be no different, with total funding cuts for driver’s education, insurance costs rising and more local students attending charter schools nearby. The district’s capital and safety needs are rapidly growing, as well.

“I don’t think Rowan County realizes what poor conditions some of our places are,” said board member Travis Allen.

The boards will discuss the school system’s general budget and capital needs, as well as pay raises for teachers, loss of teacher assistants and the district’s unfilled positions. The school board will also update the commissioners on the district’s one-to-one digital conversion.

The Rowan-Salisbury Board of Education and Rowan County Board of Commissioners will meet Wednesday at 8 a.m. at Catawba College’s Center for the Environment, 2300 W. Innes St. in Salisbury.