11/27/23 Special Board Meeting/Work Session

Present:

Dr. Meagan McBride

Mr. Dustin Williams

Dr. Andrew Gase

Mr. Larry Kisabeth

Mr. Victor Perez

As presented.

Mr. Williams stated the Finance Committee has identified key facts to publicize:  when the district will be operating with a negative cash balance, the gap between the district's income and revenue, how the district ranks in the state for spending per pupil, and its rank within the SBC for spending per pupil.  He said Mr. Richards will have more data to add as time goes on to help build a story of the district's financial picture.

Mr. Ben Richards discussed the website ThenDesign Architecture has created to focus on Tiffin City Schools facilities and master planning.  He said it will not touch on operating costs.

Mr. Kisabeth suggested cable television spots as another way to disseminate information.  He said the district needs to provide information to the public on an ongoing basis and if the district only talks to the public when money is needed, the public knows it.

In discussing a potential levy campaign, Mr. Richards said in his role, he can provide factual information about the district without engaging in campaigning.  He said staff should be kept informed and plans to continue virtual staff meetings. 

Mr. Perez stated the district needs to establish priorities for potential cuts, allowing leadership to have input.

Mr. Ryan Cook, Mr. Richards, and the board engaged in discussion of property tax versus income tax and had a cursory discussion of amounts and the frequency of going to the voters for funds.

Mr. Williams listed two action items for Mr. Richards and Mr. Cook to be completed by the December board meeting:  creating a comprehensive list and plan for all needed capital improvement projects and their costs, and differentiating between a scenario in which the district is able to do all needed projects and one in which it is only keeping the wolves at bay.

Meeting started:  5:45 p.m.
Meeting ended:  6:23 p.m.