Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Finance.safety Funding topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Muskegon Public Schools to receive larger 31aa allocation; board asks for vendor histories before security spending
Summary
CFO Catherine Emery told the board workshop that 31aa state funds allocated to the district rose from $541,000 to about $1.24 million; the district may use the money for passive detectors and third‑party security but wants vendor histories before proceeding. Emery also explained a one‑time MDE 27L educator bonus of roughly $900 gross per payee.
Muskegon Public Schools finance chief Catherine Emery outlined two state funding matters at the March 3 workshop: a one‑time educator bonus and a substantial increase in restricted 31aa funds that the administration is considering for safety equipment.
Emery said the MDE 27L educator bonus is one‑time funding earmarked for district employees who receive a check from MPS, excluding the superintendent. The bonus is roughly $900 before deductions; after typical payroll withholdings most staff are expected to net about $500.
Emery also reported that the district’s 31aa allocation, previously shown as $541,000, has increased to approximately $1.24 million because a number of schools opted out of statewide pooling. She warned that the increased funds now carry new restrictions on allowable uses and must be spent by Sept. 30; the district can request a one‑year extension from the state.
The administration said it is exploring using part of the 31aa funds for passive detectors at CHMS and MHS, accompanied by third‑party staff to monitor detectors and hallway/exterior usage, and is also evaluating third‑party security teams. Board members asked for more detailed proposals and histories of potential vendors, including evidence of successful work in other districts, before any approval or contract recommendation.
Why it matters: The larger 31aa allocation provides a significant, time‑limited funding opportunity but comes with restrictions that could dictate how the district addresses school safety or other eligible uses. The board’s request for vendor histories signals scrutiny of proposed security spending.
What’s next: Administration will return to the board with vendor histories, proposed spending plans aligned to 31aa restrictions, and any requests for an extension of the spending deadline; no formal approvals were sought or granted at the workshop.
