The petitions to recall the two trustees cite their votes in favor of closing an elementary school and hiring the "most costly" auditor, and their votes against "transparency" issues, The Observer reported. Petitions to recall the officers cite their votes for privatizing custodial services, staff layoffs and the school closing.
David Peterson-Tousignant, who filed the petitions against trustees Sue Hier and Sara Murray, told The Observer that he is frustrated that the trustees have left board meetings early or refused to vote.
Vice President Michael Stobak said at a recent meeting that the petition language misrepresents the truth, except for information on spending $25,000 for a superintendent search and information on employee layoffs, according to The Observer.
Secretary Jennifer White said she believes the recalls only hamper board dialogue, The Observer reported.
"We are in such a budget situation that it calls for us to discuss everything . . . and we shouldn't put a muzzle on board members and threatening them with recalls for discussing these items," she said, The Observer reported.
SOURCE:
The Romeo Observer, "2 recall efforts
target five on school board," Oct. 28, 2009
FURTHER READING:
Mackinac Center for Public Policy, "School Privatization Survey Shows Gains in Support Service
Contracting," Sept. 7, 2009
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