Board Update 9/14/20
Presentations
Agenda Item 5.0
Return to School Update – 5.01
The board reviewed and discussed updates from the Return to School Planning Team, which included celebrations, subcommittee reports, family and staff survey data, and next steps considerations. To view the slides from the report, please click here.
Discussion Items
Agenda Item 6.0
Facilities and Finance Planning – 6.01
Strategic Goal (SG) 4: Stewardship of Resources
The board discussed updates from the facilities and finance committees regarding construction projects in phases one and two, as well as additional capital project financing recommendations. The board discussed the $4.4 million savings resulting from roofing project efficiencies, while the $1.88 million in overall projected savings/revenue updates were also reviewed and discussed. To view the presentation slides, please click here.
Prepare 2020 Tax Levy and Set Date – 6.02
SG 4: Stewardship of Resources
Cook County taxing districts follow the Truth in Taxation Law (35 ILCS 200/18-55; Division 2). This law requires CCSD59 to estimate the necessary amount of its aggregate levy not fewer than 20 days before taking action to adopt the levy. The board will vote on proceeding with the preparation of the 2020 levy and announcing the public hearing date of November 9, 2020, at the board meeting on September 28, 2020.
Prepare 2021-2022 Budget – 6.03
SG 4: Stewardship of Resources
Section 5/17-1 of the Illinois School Code requires an annual tentative budget to be prepared by a representative designated by the board, which is available for public inspection for at least 30 days prior to final action.
In addition, the Local Government Travel Expense Control Act, 50 ILCS 150/10, and Board of Education Policies 2:125 and 5:60 require the board to review the Maximum Allowable Reimbursement Amount (MARA). The resolution adoption would set that amount equal to the budgeted travel expenses amount for the 2021-22 fiscal year.
At the October 13, 2020, board meeting, the board will vote to designate the superintendent to cause a tentative budget to be prepared for the 2021-22 fiscal year based on a criteria of budget parameters.
Grand Prairie Contract Amendment – 6.04
SG 4: Stewardship of Resources
Due to schools participating in remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting reduction in transportation needs, the district has discussed reducing contractual fees with Grand Prairie Transit, one of the companies the district utilizes for bussing students. The contract with Grand Prairie Transit currently costs $2,438,544.50 for the school year.
Grand Prairie Transit provided a breakdown of fixed costs needed to continue providing services to CCSD59. Through an amendment to the contract, the district has tentatively agreed to pay 37% of the contracted cost for services beginning on August 17, 2020, and ending upon the district’s return to in-person instruction, at which time the normal contracted rate would resume. This permits the company to operate when CCSD59 returns to in-person learning while providing the district substantial financial savings.
The board will vote on approval of the amendment to the agreement at the board meeting on October 13, 2020.
September 28 Committee of the Whole Meeting Topics – 6.05
SG 3: Family and Community Partnerships
The board discussed the agenda topics for the upcoming Committee of the Whole meeting to be held on September 28, 2020. The agenda topics will include an update on the return to in-person learning plans, as well as next steps for the district’s strategic plan. Additional agenda items will be added as needed.
Action Items
Agenda Item 8.0
Approval of Appointment of Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) Authorized Agent – 8.01
SG 4: Stewardship of Resources
As an IMRF employer, CCSD59 is required to appoint an IMRF Authorized Agent. According to the Illinois Pension code (40 ILCS 5/7-135), an IMRF Authorized Agent files payroll reports, pays contributions, files benefit applications for members, and acts as the agent of the governing body in IMRF matters.
CCSD59 Assistant Superintendent of Business Services/CSBO Ron O’Connor was appointed by the board to serve as the IMRF Authorized Agent.