Brentwood commission approves annual community and school grants; some commissioners object to furniture purchases

The Brentwood City Commission voted unanimously Aug. 25 to approve its annual distribution of budgeted donations to local schools and community service providers and to adopt routine consent resolutions, while several commissioners expressed concern that some schools are using the donations to replace basic classroom furniture.

At a presentation before the vote, principals and program leaders from Brentwood High School, Ravenwood High School and at least a dozen elementary and middle schools described planned uses for the funds, including new document cameras, audio equipment, classroom furniture and expansion of programs such as a Movement Lab and music instruments.

"We're very grateful for all that you do for the city of Brentwood and the students and the entire community," said Kevin Caddell, principal of Brentwood High School, who introduced the group. Ravenwood Principal Pam Baden said the funds help fill gaps now that "class fees are no longer in existence" and listed needs that include tubas, tenor saxophones, violins and replacement of 24-year-old performance equipment.

Several principals offered specific figures. Marissa Block, principal at Woodland Middle School, said replacing a single classroom of 32 desks and chairs costs about $8,000. Nathan Wimsatt, speaking for Brentwood Blaze youth football, said the…