In a surprising turn of events, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Board of Trustees has announced that it will not be discussing the school's athletic budget in a closed session, despite previously stating otherwise. The decision comes after a complaint was filed alleging a violation of the state's open meetings and public records act.

The complaint, filed by attorney David McKenzie, accused the board of improper conduct and secrecy regarding the discussion of "UNC Athletics' financials, budgeting, deficit, or ongoing or future conference realignment and related strategic planning." A judge granted a temporary restraining order to halt the closed session, which was scheduled to address these specific matters.

Although the board did convene for a closed session on Thursday morning, Board Chairman John Preyer clarified the intentions during the subsequent full board meeting. Preyer stated that there was no intention to hold a separate budget presentation for athletics in a closed session, as had been previously suggested. He emphasized the board's commitment to respect the legal grounds for closed sessions and confirmed that no changes were made to the board's plans for the meeting.

During the initial meeting on Monday, Preyer and other board members had made remarks indicating their intention to discuss the athletics budget in a closed session. Preyer even stressed the importance of having an extended discussion to address the financial challenges and determine strategies for improvement.

Trustee Jennifer Halsey Evans also mentioned a closed session discussion in November pertaining to the athletics budget. However, Preyer's statement on Thursday indicated that there was a lack of clarity in their comments during the previous meeting, which resulted in misconceptions about the agenda items for the closed session.

The UNC Board of Trustees has faced increasing concerns over the athletics program's budget deficit, initially estimated at $17 million. With the future of college athletics uncertain, the board acknowledged the significant legal risks involved.

In light of the lawsuit and the court's temporary restraining order, the board's decision to refrain from discussing the athletics budget during the closed session reflects a commitment to transparency and compliance with open meetings regulations.

The board's agenda for the closed session included reports from the external affairs and university affairs committees, as well as updates on campus security and legal issues. Athletics Director Bubba Cunningham left the meetings when the closed session began.

As the legal proceedings continue, the UNC Board of Trustees will need to address the financial challenges facing the athletics program in a manner consistent with open meetings laws to ensure transparency and accountability moving forward.