Superintendent proposes policy change after contract with law firm drew public scrutiny; community member urges greater transparency

Superintendent Mueller told the board the district will change its practice for contracts that “may enter into potential litigation” after community concern about a February contract with the Franz Law Group.

Mueller said the contract had been processed in the district’s usual manner but that, following public interest and board direction at a special meeting, the district will “agendaize in closed session” any contract for services that may lead to litigation prior to taking public action. He said a related board policy will be brought forward to formalize the change.

A member of the public, Carolyn Rogerson, told the board she believes the district lacks transparency on such items and criticized the law firm’s public statements, saying the matter creates uncertainty for families. Rogerson said, “The lack of transparency has got to stop,” and urged the board to be “completely open almost about every penny you spend.”

Mueller apologized for not anticipating community interest in the item and said staff will present a first read and a proposed board policy amending future practice. The board did not take action at the meeting; the superintendent indicated a policy will be drafted and returned for review.