Having a Voice

If you don't have school age children, you may not even be aware of an issue which has had many residents upset in recent weeks.  There was a proposed budget cut which would have eliminated crossing guards at our 3 elementary schools.  The cut would have been a $21,600 reduction to the city's budget. There was a call to action from the schools PTA members to get out there and have your voice heard. 

There was a strong showing . The main issue was whether crossing guards and the safety and service they provide to our youngest citizens, falls to the school district, or is a Public Safety issue, thereby falling to the city, specifically under the police umbrella.  There were a total of 9 people (myself included), who requested an opportunity to voice their opposition to the proposed cut. 

I could not have been more impressed and proud of my fellow speakers.  We all touched on different aspects, but of course, it all came back to the safety of our children.  This group definitely did their homework. 

Well, the work paid off. The city agreed with a 3 to 2 vote, to extend the payment for 1 more year, with the proviso that a focus group will be formed to include not only Council members, but police and parents, to come up with alternatives for funding in the coming years.  The school district (who funded the program up until 1994 when they asked the city to take over due to budgetary contraints) will also be asked to participate.  A meeting of the minds if you will. There were some great suggestions, such as grant money which the Foster City Police Department brought to the Council's attention just prior to the start of the meeting, which can indeed be used for crossing guards. 

Ultimately, the Council's decision last night bought us time to come up with other viable solutions, as of course, we are still dealing with a city budget which is in deficit mode, and cuts have to be considered in all areas to maintain our city reserves. This was a result of citizens coming together and voicing their opinions in a direct and concise manner, and utilizing the system of the people of our city having the opportunity to voice their concerns.  We were heard.

If you are interested in being a part of the group which will be formed with the city to look at alternatives, please contact the city.  I also encourage you to get involved in city issues which you have a passion for, don't sit on the sidelines and be a Monday morning quarterback....