School board removes and then tables consent item after dispute over bargaining-team cuts

During the July 22 meeting the Columbia County School Board removed consent agenda item 6H after members raised concerns about reductions to the district’s bargaining teams and associated stipends, then voted to table that item so staff can return with additional information.

A board member asked why negotiating teams were shortened and why some names no longer appeared. Ms. Logan, a district staff member, replied that the district proposed trimming team membership this fiscal year to reduce costs and demonstrate a “good faith” effort where the district was asking many others to make cuts. She said she “stepped out of SESPA” and that "Mister Whitaker stepped out of CTA," and noted other personnel changes. Ms. Logan said the stipend for each team is about $1,800.

Several board members expressed concern about removing people and cutting stipends. One member said she was not in favor of cutting $1,800 and that the board must approve the negotiating team each year. Members discussed whether the change should be decided in public or in executive session; the board chair said the item would be brought back at the next public school board meeting and could be added to the addendum.

The board first approved the consent agenda after removing item 6H; later, the board then moved to table item 6H to allow Mr. Cooley (staff) to return and address the proposal. The motion to table was moved and seconded and passed by voice vote. The board did not take a final action on the composition of the bargaining teams at this meeting.

Board members named people removed from team rosters: Ms. Swisher was removed as a public-relations member; Mr. Gaylord was removed because he "is no longer in that role"; Mr. Wigren and others were noted as being removed from CTA or CESPA rosters. The transcript shows the board chose to handle the matter later to review individual changes and be fair to all involved.