Parlier official clarifies 2019 overpayment tied to unapproved expenditure; $83,000 in Department of Education funds available, use contested

During council comments on April 18, an elected official (unnamed on the public record) addressed questions about a previously reported overpayment and available Department of Education funds for the Academy of Excellence program.

The speaker said the city can charge up to 15% for administrative costs under Department of Education rules and that prior statements at an April 4 meeting saying a 15% administrative charge was unallowable were incorrect. The speaker cited discussions with the Department of Education and the city auditors (named in the record as Jeribu and Ryan Jolley) and said auditors confirmed that a 2019 overpayment stemmed from a roof expenditure that was not submitted for required prior approval.

The speaker also said the Department of Education has provided or identified $83,000 for use on allowable program expenses, including mortgage payments, utilities, facility maintenance and improvements, insurance, protective equipment, cleaning and sanitation supplies, or training. The same speaker said using that $83,000 to provide staff bonuses would be inappropriate, stating that the city’s job is to protect public funds and maintain sustainability of programs.

The council member urged accuracy in open meetings and said the city will continue to collaborate with auditors and the Department of Education to ensure compliance. No formal vote or action was taken at the meeting on the $83,000 or on any staff bonuses.