RSU 15 board previews revenue-idea evaluation tool and considers public contest to find non-tax revenue

Sam, a member of the finance committee, introduced a Google-form evaluation tool the committee adapted from a previous transportation vetting rubric to score potential revenue-generating ideas. "Wouldn't it be great if we had other sources of revenue other than just property taxes?" Sam asked, noting the tool assigns scores for factors including fit with the strategic plan and implementation cost.

Sam suggested using the tool to host a public contest—inviting students, parents and community members to submit ideas, then having the finance committee and administration score submissions. "Maybe there's a seventh grader at the middle school who has a grand idea for generating revenue and we just don't know about it yet," he said.

Board members praised the concept as a structured way to surface ideas. "It's an awesome idea to throw out," said Misty, who encouraged student participation. Fran, who reviewed the tool, called it helpful for comparing options and tracking opportunities.

Members also raised concerns about equity and practicality. One member urged caution about charging to attend district events or charging students for parking, saying "the idea of charging the students to park... might be contradictory because they might find the fees too high and have to leave their cars at home and then we'd have to bus more students." Sam acknowledged some sample ideas (charging event parking) scored poorly in his pilot and said the tool is primarily an evaluation mechanism, not an immediate policy change.

Next steps agreed in discussion included finalizing the tool with administration, piloting submissions with the finance committee scoring entries, and rolling out a public invitation in the fall after timing and logistics are set. Dr. Turner said administration would work with finance to determine optimal timing and suggested a fall launch after summer and graduation activities.