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Board debates format for budget town halls and study sessions as trustees press for deep dive
Summary
Trustees and staff discussed a plan for public budget outreach and education, debating non‑Brown Act advisory meetings versus special board study sessions, number of sessions, and geographic rotation. Staff will return with options; some trustees asked that sessions be accessible and allow interactive Q&A.
Trustees considered how best to give the community deeper, accessible information about the district budget, debt and future fiscal risks. Proposals ranged from non‑Brown Act superintendent advisory or town‑hall meetings (which allow interactive public Q&A) to special board study sessions (formal, limited public comment). Several trustees urged multiple sessions or a series to ensure community members can learn budget basics and ask follow‑up questions.
Superintendent and staff advised caution about Brown Act constraints for board members attending advisory meetings that contemplate future votes. Staff recommended a hybrid approach: one or more public, non‑Brown Act town halls to solicit community questions and then a follow‑up special board item summarizing public feedback. Trustees also suggested rotating locations, combining quads, or hosting three sequential sessions that cover distinct budget topics. Staff committed to returning with concrete options and a recommended format and schedule.
