Mayor Malik advocates for citizen participation in advisory committee formation

The Special Board of Education meeting held on April 4, 2025, in Akron, Ohio, focused on enhancing community involvement in educational governance. Key discussions centered around the formation of an advisory committee aimed at ensuring citizen representation in decision-making processes.

Mayor Malek emphasized the importance of including community members who face educational challenges in discussions about local education policies. He proposed that the advisory committee be formalized before the next meeting to facilitate this representation. The committee would consist of four representatives appointed by the city and four by the board, along with an at-large member from the community.

Participants discussed the need for clear communication and collaboration between the Treasurer and the Director of Finance regarding financial matters, particularly concerning the use of funds and compliance with contractual obligations. Mayor Malek outlined three action steps to be taken before the next meeting: sharing necessary information, reviewing the contract for permitted expenditures, and formalizing the Citizens Advisory Group focused on community access to educational resources.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of these initiatives and a call for feedback on scheduling the next meeting, highlighting a commitment to ongoing dialogue and community engagement in educational governance.