Bond refunding question
Two weeks ago, the Post ran an article about the Cedar Springs Public School district and the fact that they were able to save the taxpayers money by the refunding of bonds, Series A and Series B. This should be good news for taxpayers. However, some have questioned the process and whether the Superintendent was conducting financial business for the district without the Board of Education’s knowledge.
The reason for this question has to do with a comment made at the March 14 board meeting, where the board adopted the ratification resolution. Several writers to the Post have noted that Board President Patricia Eary asked, “What do we have to do to make this happen?” To which Superintendent Dr. Laura VanDuyn answered, “I’ve already signed.”
A delegating resolution that the board approved at the December 14 board meeting authorized the Superintendent to accept and execute the bond purchase agreement with the Underwriter, which she did on February 19. The board says that the ratification resolution on March 14 was an additional (but not mandatory) step to show transparency and support for the process.
See the entire statement from the Board about the bond refunding on page ??.
Role of the school board and the open meetings act
For those who have questions about the role of the Board of Education and how it should operate under the Open Meetings Act, there will be a special presentation on Tuesday, April 19, from 6-9 p.m. at the Hilltop Community building, in the 3rd floor boardroom. The presentation will be given by Scott Morrell, of the Michigan Association School Boards. The public is invited to attend.
