Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Education Funding topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Granite Falls councilmembers press for action on school special-education shortfall and local programs
Summary
Councilmembers raised concerns about a roughly $1 million special-education funding shortfall in the Granite Falls School District, urged residents to contact state lawmakers about a pursuit bill, and encouraged community involvement in youth programs and Chamber events.
Councilmember Tom FitzGerald raised concerns about special-education funding within the Granite Falls School District, saying district leaders reported a funding shortfall of about $1 million and that special-education needs are roughly 20% higher than nearby districts while maximum state funding is described in the minutes as 13.5 percent. FitzGerald said a special meeting was held on the funding gap and noted that House Bill 5713 did not advance to committee.
Councilmember Steven Glenn urged residents to contact their state representatives about a pursuit bill under consideration and encouraged support for youth organizations, noting it was good to see the Boys & Girls Club facility being used. Councilmember David Griggs praised new leadership at the Granite Falls Chamber of Commerce and said the chamber's Show N' Shine registration would open around April 1.
These comments were made during the council-comment portion of the March 1 meeting; the minutes record discussion and information-sharing but do not show council action or formal votes on the education funding item. The city manager and mayor also noted upcoming intergovernmental meetings and a joint workshop the council will hold next week.
