Posted: 7/7/04

School spending policies criticized

As ISD 831 officials continue to mull a possible excess operating levy proposal this November, a former board member has come out with criticism of district spending policies. Dick Tschida, who is now on the state board of teaching, presented his analysis of district spending policies over the past four years that indicated $10.5 million in total spending increases with an average increase of 5.31 percent a year. Tschida said he based his report on figures available from the school district. He encouraged the board to go back and review spending policies and prioritize spending. He said teacher cuts should not be the only choice for cutting expenditures. Tschida gave thanks to board member Keith Dunham who earlier spoke in favor of a more detailed budget review as part of the budget cutting process. The district has cut some $2 million and raised certain fees for the school year that started July 1. Another $2 million in cuts may be needed for the 2005-2006 school year. The board will meet in special session at 6 p.m., Thursday, July 15 to further explore plans for an operating levy vote on Nov. 2.

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