Waunakee board approves one‑month up‑to $7,000 bridge for community coalition facing grant delay

The Waunakee Community School District board voted to provide a one‑month bridge payment not to exceed $7,000 from Fund 80 to the Waunakee Community Cares Coalition (WCC) after WCC leaders described an unexpected funding gap caused by delayed federal Drug‑Free Communities (DFC) grant disbursement.

Tim Decora, WCC project coordinator, told the board the coalition had been operating on carryover funds and that while year‑6 funding was expected, the associated federal funds were not released on schedule. He said the coalition has approximately $31,000 available in an account but estimates it needs as much as $51,000 to carry staffing and essential activities through June 30; the coalition requested interim support to avoid furloughs.

Board discussion addressed funding sources and options. Administration and finance staff identified Fund 80 (community services) as a logical place for a short‑term contribution and noted roughly $20,000–$25,000 could be available in that fund balance. Trustees agreed a short bridge could be appropriate while the village and other sector partners consider contributions. Board member Mark moved to provide a one‑month bridge not to exceed $7,000 from Fund 80; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

Administrators asked the coalition to provide itemized costs tied to district students and programs so the budget committee could evaluate additional support in February. Tim said he will present additional detail to staff and will meet with the village board as planned.

Next steps: administration will release up to $7,000 from Fund 80 to the coalition to cover immediate payroll or essential items; the budget committee will review further assistance and coordinate with village officials and other sector members.