MNPS Budget Reforms

This discussion topic was requested by Council Member Jennifer Webb regarding reforms to the budget process and Metro Nashville Public Schools.

From CM Webb:

I want to create oversight of the public school system. (I know there are state laws involved here.)

I want to establish a committee with council members, independent auditors, and community reps to review school expenditures.

Regular audit reports - require annual independent audits to the council before budget system (auditor chosen by committee).

Council can investigate any expenditure exceeding thresholds and request justification from MNPS.

Why can’t we do a charter amendment?

Ideas:

***I am advocating a state level for city councils more oversight on their budgets.

***I want a DETAILED by line financials submitted to council monthly.

***I think we need to attach conditions to budget approval

• Student performance metrics
• Facility standards
• Staff to student ratio

***Require council approval before capital funds are allocated

***Require dashboard for MNPS to track spending by department in real time

***Council should pass resolution requiring MNPS to submit quarterly expenditure reports

***Mandate a vote for expenditures over a certain amount.