Update on Community Budget Meeting

by Julie Dolley

January 05, 2010

Over 70 people were in attendance at the January 4 Community Budget Meeting held at Argonia High School. After a KASB presentation describing the state budget crisis and how it is affecting Kansas schools, the group had a discussion about how the budget crisis is directly affecting the Argonia school system. There have been a lot of rumors going around about the consolidation of area school districts. Argonia is not actively seeking another district to consolidate with.

This legislative session will be extremely critical for all Kansas school districts. If the legislature does not make any attempts to raise state revenue, then further budget cuts are sure to follow. Constituents from all Kansas schools should be contacting their local legislators as they go back in session on January 11 and demand that public schools be adequately funded. Most people do not realize that with just a one-cent sales tax increase, over $300 million can be generated.

In the coming months the Argonia school board will be discussing budget cuts that have to be made to finish out the 2009-2010 school year as well as anticipated cuts to be made for the 2010-2011 school year, depending on what happens with the state budget. Patrons are invited to attend Argonia school board meetings which are held on the second Monday of every month. Board meeting agendas are posted on the website under the “District Information” tab. There was also discussion about organizing a trip to Topeka to meet with local legislators. More details will be announced as these plans are formed.

Information will also be posted in the newspaper, district newsletter, and on the website regarding future community meetings as they are scheduled. It was encouraging to have such a large group attend Monday’s meeting. It is evident that there are a lot of people committed to our school district.

Legislative Contact Information:

Senator Steve Abrams, District 32 (Sumner County)

Capitol Office Room: 541-E

Phone: 785-296-7381

Email: steve.abrams@senate.ks.gov

Senator Ruth Teichman, District 33 (Harper County)

Capitol Office Room: 236-E

Phone: 785-296-7394

Email: ruth.teichman@senate.ks.gov

Representative Vince Wetta, District 80 (Sumner Co./Harper Co.Townships 2, 3, 4)

Capital Office Room: DSOB

Phone: 785-296-7665