SR-011309-8CCity Council Meeting: January 13, 2009
Agenda Item: ~'G
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Carol Swindell, Director of Finance
Subject: Payment to the Santa Monica Unified School District
Recommended Action
Presented for Council consideration is the authorization of an $804,470 payment to the
Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) under the Master Facilities
Joint Use Agreement. These funds had previously been set aside pending further
action by the District.
Executive Summary
Council will consider whether the SMMUSD has met the requirements set forth on June
12, 2007, including a review of its special education plan, use of confidentiality
agreements, and conferences with the Santa Monica City Manager.
Discussion
On June 12, 2007, a motion was adopted by the Santa Monica City Council to withhold
funds from the SMMUSD pending further action, citing concerns brought forth by the
parents of children requiring special education services. The Council further requested
that the District conduct an independent public review of its special education plan by
March 31, 2008.
Since the June 2007 meeting, Council has received reports on the progress of the
special education program from the City Manager and representatives and parents for
SMMUSD.
To date, a total of $804,470 has been set aside, including $527,779 for fiscal year 2007-
08 and $274,691, which represents half of the fiscal year 2008-09 budgeted amount of
$549,381. The SMMUSD will make another presentation to Council tonight on the
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status of their progress, after which Council may wish to consider whether to release
these funds.
Financial Impacts & Budget Actions
Funds in the amount of $529,779 are encumbered in account 01274.566821, SMMUSD
Agreement. Set Aside, for Fiscal Year 2007-2008. Additionally, budget of $549,381 is
available in the same account for Fiscal Year 2008-09.
Prepared by:
Chuck McBride, Assistant Director of Finance
Approved:
Forwarded to Council:
Carol Swindell '
Director of Finance
~'~L~iont Ewell
Manager
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