Board approves updated financial policies and procurement language including Buy America reference

The Lake Wales Charter Schools Board of Trustees approved an updated Financial Policies and Procedures Manual that includes procurement guidance and a specific section referencing Buy America requirements cited by the state agriculture department.

Mister Smith presented the manual and said it has been a living document that will be refined further after audits and as internal-control updates are identified. He told trustees the manual includes language requested by the state Department of Agriculture related to Buy America—language based on a memorandum originally referenced in February 2017—and that the board’s acknowledgement would support compliance for food-service directors.

Trustee Brian Marburg reviewed procurement sections and raised two items for revision during future drafts: removing language that permits “verbal” quotes for purchases and clarifying a single standard for district-issued devices (MacBooks, Chromebooks, etc.). Board members agreed to break the manual into discrete policies over time so trustees can consider each section independently.

During the business meeting, Trustee Doctor Johnson moved to approve the Financial Policies and Procedures Manual “with the indications of Mr. Blair”; the motion was seconded by Trustee Blair and passed on roll call with all trustees voting yes. Trustees said staff will return with refined, standalone policies for specific procurement and purchasing thresholds.

Ending: Staff said they will continue to revise the manual as audits are completed and will bring separated policy sections to future meetings to allow trustees time to review.