The board addressed the community’s financial concerns, emphasizing the involvement of the county superintendent’s office in reviewing the situation. It acknowledged it was too early to determine the full extent of the issues but assured the public of their reliance on professional finance committees, auditors, and the regular receipt of treasurer’s reports and bill lists to oversee financial matters. The board refrained from convening in committees over the past month, which led to a lack of updates on the agenda, but they discussed establishing a dedicated communications section on the district’s website.

During the meeting, the board faced pointed questions from community members. The financial oversight of the district was at the forefront, with inquiries about the vetting process for board members and employees, the potential for borrowing money from the state, and the timeline of the board’s knowledge of the financial issues. Concerns were particularly pronounced regarding a project budget that escalated from $200,000 to $1.9 million over two years, raising questions about the budget approval process and financial checks and balances within the district.

Community members expressed frustration and sought clarity on steps being taken to address the financial situation. Questions were raised about the hiring process for personnel and companies, the allocation of maintenance funds, and the involvement of police and county officials. The board reiterated their commitment to working with the county superintendent’s office to analyze the situation and determine necessary resolutions, emphasizing transparency and the pursuit of corrective actions.

The public comments highlighted the community’s lack of confidence in the board’s ability to address ongoing issues, with specific references to failed referendums and the financial implications for the district. The potential impact on the preschool program and the continuity of essential programs were also major concerns for the community. A retired law enforcement officer, Maria Hamin, questioned the board about the corrective actions and the potential for criminal proceedings if individuals were found guilty of misappropriating funds. Another community member, Chris Kino, brought up concerns about the fire at Lincoln School and its repercussions for the upcoming school year, while Nick Fry questioned the community’s faith in the board’s capacity to resolve the issues.

The board could not comment on personnel issues publicly but discussed the process through which they became aware of the financial challenges. They assured the community that they are in collaboration with county and state representatives to address the situation. Questions were also raised about the qualifications of the personnel involved in financial matters and the role of the Secretary of School Monies in budget committee meetings and the handling of accounts over the past three years.

In addition to these issues, the board managed regular academic, finance, and personnel resolutions. They voted on specific check numbers and items, and the meeting concluded with the board moving to a closed executive session to discuss personnel, anticipated litigation, and service contracts. They resolved that the outcomes of these discussions would be made public in a subsequent meeting or when confidentiality no longer applied.