Board questions large monthly payments and missing invoices, rejects checklisting approval

Board members debated the district's monthly checklisting (vendor payments) at length during the May 12 meeting, expressing concern about missing documentation and large or recurring charges.

Director Diana Davis Day and Secretary Taylor repeatedly asked for invoices and contracts; staff said most checks are released only after board approval, though some utilities are provisionally released. The board secretary reported staff were unable to locate an executed contract for "Mentors in Motion" and would reach out to the organization for documentation.

Director Taylor pointed to multiple high charges on the April list, including an $11,681 invoice for lighting equipment from Overland Shade and substantial fuel costs for diesel buses; she said field-trip spending for the district in April appeared to be $1,572. Director Pearson pressed on a recurring $30,000 monthly payment that he said had been paid without a visible contract and asked that the board investigate the origin and authorization of that expense: "How do we pay a $30,000 bill monthly?" Pearson asked.

District staff (Carlton Brooks) said board approval is required for releasing most checks and offered to provide invoices or meet individually with directors to review supporting documentation. Multiple directors said they had repeatedly asked for invoices and had not received full details.

Following discussion the board took a roll-call vote on the checklisting item and it failed (the 'no' votes prevailed). Directors asked staff to provide documentation and consider forming an advisory committee or other oversight process to review expenditures.

The board continued with other consent items and asked staff to return with requested invoices and clarifications.