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Independence 30 board adopts resolution opposing Missouri Constitutional Amendment 5
Summary
The Independence 30 School District board voted to adopt a resolution officially opposing Missouri Constitutional Amendment 5, directing administration to issue a follow-up press release; legal staff briefed the board on limited, statute-authorized options for district action on ballot measures.
The Independence 30 School District board voted to adopt a resolution expressing opposition to Missouri Constitutional Amendment 5 and directed administration to issue a press release summarizing the board’s position.
Board President Anthony J. Mundane said the measure could have wide effects on the district and urged a clear stance: “Our voice needs to be heard in the space of protecting our schools, our funding,” he said. Directors reviewed two drafts — one that takes a stronger oppositional stance and another intended merely to increase public awareness — before choosing the stronger language.
Legal counsel advised the board on permissible actions under state law, cautioning that district resources may not be used to promote a ballot measure. “Certainly, you can issue a press release because by statute, that's authorized specifically with respect to a ballot measure,” the counsel said, explaining the typical process of adopting a resolution and then issuing a press release based on it.
Several board members urged that the district both oppose the amendment and make information available to the community. “I think we need to say the words that we oppose it,” one director said during debate. Other members emphasized pairing the formal position with explanatory material so residents understand the amendment’s potential impacts.
The motion to adopt the resolution and release accompanying communications was moved, seconded and carried on a voice vote. The board recorded the directive that staff finalize missing district-specific language in the draft and prepare the press release to distribute after the vote.
The board’s action was procedural and advisory: counsel told members that, aside from a resolution and statutorily authorized press statements, officials may exercise their individual free-speech rights but must not expend district funds to influence the election. The board adjourned into closed session after concluding the public portion of the meeting.
