A press release issued on February 13 from Richmond Public Schools claimed that the school board will deliberate the cost reduction proposals of the audit and make a formal response on March 19. School Board Chairman George P. Braxton added “We are taking what we consider to be an aggressive position and working on a quick timetable as we review the recommendations and work of the City Auditor. We consider this audit an integral part of our financial planning; therefore, we want to truly investigate its ramifications and recommendations.”
The results of this audit come at an inconvenient time for the school board, hoping to stretch the City Council’s ordinance to include more local aid. The $7.7 million addendum is now up to $11.6 million, covering the costs of moving the school system’s offices from City Hall to another site. The same day, Mayor Wilder called for an independent investigation into the school’s spending policy, as well as into the rise of recent property assessments. Mayor Wilder declared that the school board was not completely cooperating with the city auditor’s investigation and that a more comprehensive review would be required. His frustration was illustrated in his statements that “Now they are going to be held accountable to provide the information. If they don’t provide it, it’s bye-bye, no money for you.”
The three main areas that Mayor Wilder wanted the audit to focus on were central administration, instructional programs, and school facilities. Braxton responded with examples of past audits that have explored these issues, adding “He’s in a position to say whatever he wishes to say. We’re taking many positive steps to make our school system better.” Hopefully, the Mayor, City Council, and School Board can put aside their differences to reach an agreement about the school system budget. In an effort to improve the city administration’s public image, the mayor joined City Council members yesterday in an informal retreat, during which the mayor collaborated with council members on the problems facing the city, especially those concerning the city school system.
Richmond’s CFO, Harry E. Black, commented on Mayor Wilder’s newest proposal of releasing budgeted money to the School Board on a monthly basis, instead of quarterly, describing the condition that the school board would also have to report how the audit’s recommendations were being honored. The council reiterated its request for the mayor and School Board to reach a decision about closing and consolidating schools while building new ones, as set forth by the City of the Future plan. Mayor Wilder says that he is waiting for the superintendent’s recommendation on the matter. School Superintendent, Deborah Jewell-Sherman, confirmed that her latest appointment with the mayor, set for February 13, had been rescheduled by the mayor’s office for February 26.
