Council approves crossing‑guard contract amid questions about funding and oversight

The City Council voted to approve renewal of a school crossing guard agreement with the K–8 school district at the May 4 meeting after councilmembers asked staff and the police chief for more information about funding levels, performance assessment and vacancies.

Councilmembers raised that the city’s contribution — $21,600 — appears to have been unchanged for many years. One councilmember asked whether the district had increased its share and whether there was data showing whether the existing coverage is adequate; staff said the crossing guards are district employees and the district submits reimbursement claims after payroll expenditures.

Police staff and the chief said the city contributes toward salaries but does not directly manage the program, that the district handles hiring and performance, and that staff can request additional information from the district. Council discussion also noted volunteer guards and community fundraising as ways the program has been supported.

A motion to approve the consent item passed. On the record one councilmember indicated they would abstain pending additional information; the clerk summarized the result as “4 0 1,” recorded in the meeting transcript as four votes in favor and one abstention.

Councilmembers agreed that those who supported approval could later move for reconsideration and return the item with requested data if needed. Staff said the city can bring an agendized amendment to increase funding if the district provides justification for a higher contribution.

The item was approved at the meeting; staff will follow up with the district if council members request additional performance or cost data.