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Residents question special‑election petition after board appointment; speakers cite representation and cost concerns
Summary
Public commenters criticized a petition to force a special election after the board’s unanimous appointment to fill Area 3, raising questions about cost, representation of minority communities and motivations behind the petition.
Several public speakers urged the board to consider the fiscal and community consequences of a petition that will force a special election to fill a board vacancy in Area 3.
Craig Lazaretti, who said he had confirmed signature verification with the county elections office, told trustees the petition will call a special election that will cost the district an estimated $50,000–$63,000 and said he found that use of scarce district funds troubling amid a budget shortfall.
"It is sad and disappointing to hear that amid an ongoing budget crisis, a petition has been submitted to force a special election out of spite," Lazaretti said, urging respect for the process that led to the board’s appointment. He said the signatures had been verified and a special election would be called, and he urged community members not to damage the district’s finances.
Other speakers framed the petition as politically motivated. Linda Olivera asked who submitted signatures and whether signers reflected the district’s demographic makeup; she expressed concern about whether minority voices had been included. Megan Katz Deaver said she recognized some petition organizers and described statements she had heard at community meetings opposing district DEI work, saying the petition appeared related to those views.
Board members defended their unanimous appointment of Britney Ayala to Area 3, saying appointment is a lawful, democratic option and emphasizing the difference between an appointment and a voter‑initiated petition. Trustee comments repeatedly called the appointment an exercise of the board’s statutory authority and urged civil discourse.
Public commenters on related themes also raised broader civic concerns. Several speakers urged stronger civics instruction and said the district should ensure students learn about democratic processes and voting rights. Others criticized past political endorsements by local education organizations and said such endorsements undermine trust in staff or unions.
No board action was taken on the petition at the meeting; the county elections office will administer any special election if the petition meets statutory requirements.
