The Valley View CUSD 365U Board of Education voted Dec. 8 to renew a legislative consulting agreement with JAR Consulting (Springfield) for the 2025 calendar year at $3,000 per month. Treasurer John Renich summarized JAR’s work dating back to 2011 and described several outcomes he attributed to their representation, including assistance with a $750,000 site improvement grant for RC Hill, a $500,000 roof/facility grant, positioning the district for a potential $12 million Capital Development Board opportunity and legislative help to extend bond debt when interest rates fell.

Renich also told the board JAR has provided monthly updates and has supported district work on recent FOIA requests involving AI. A board motion to approve the consulting service agreement was made, seconded and approved by roll call.

The contract renewal will continue monthly legislative support; administration said JAR has not increased fees since the initial partnership and that the district can reach out to the firm for additional initiatives as needed.