Before you guys ask, Wake school officials say that it cost $487.50 to cover the cost of the reception for new school board member Keith Sutton.

After being sworn in by N.C. Appeals Court Judge Jim Wynn, the board meeting was recessed Tuesday to hold the reception. Michael Evans, Wake's chief communications officer, said Child Nutrition Services catered the event at $6.50 per person for 75 people.

The crowd, which included former school board member Beverley Clark and Wake County Commissioner Chairman Harold Webb, dined on punch and hors d'oeuvres.

Receptions are traditionally held when a new board member takes office. But this year is also an extremely challenging budget year.