MCOE board to extend application deadline, schedule March 20 special meeting for interviews

The Mendocino County Office of Education board voted to extend the application deadline for an open trustee seat and to hold a special meeting March 20 at 4:45 p.m. for interviews, after members discussed withdrawn applicants and procedural constraints.

Trustees said two earlier applicants withdrew and that reopening the recruitment could be done without a costly election if the board appoints a candidate by March 28. Frank Zoddard, who was introduced at the meeting and identified as present, and the board's legal counsel advised on timing and teleconferencing requirements. Zoddard noted limits on pandemic-era remote rules and outlined that, outside of declared public-health emergencies, remote participation still requires designated physical forum locations and public notice. "The pandemic provision that's gone is defunct right now... it's only available if there's a public health emergency," he said.

Board members debated practical matters—possible dates, ADA access for remote locations, and whether to hold interviews in the main office or at Fort Bragg with remote access. Ultimately a trustee moved to extend the application period and schedule the special board meeting for March 20 at 4:45; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. Trustees also discussed setting a submission close date (suggested 5 p.m. on March 18) so staff had time to post and prepare applicant materials.

The board Chair asked members to remain flexible in case applicants cancel again and recommended agendizing backup plans at the special meeting so the board can act within statutory timelines rather than triggering an election, which trustees said would be more costly.