Thom Miller

The meeting began with a spotlight presentation recognizing the school board members for Schoolboard Recognition Week, highlighting their dedication, policy work, and role as the community's eyes and ears. The agenda approval was followed by the Superintendent's report, which celebrated the efforts of Health in the Park group regarding a recent mental health event and noted construction progress, specifically the upcoming move at Aquila. The discussion items centered on the Financial Advisory Committee update, which reviewed budget assumptions, drivers of enrollment (WAMS), the general fund balance compared to other districts, and economic considerations such as proposed state funding increases. Key recommendations from the committee included using 5100 WMS for the fiscal 16 budget, keeping special education revenue flat, and suggesting a 1.5% increase for the general education basic formula.

This document outlines the City of St. Louis Park's Climate Action Plan, adopted in February 2018, which aims to achieve Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 and 100% renewable electricity by 2030. The plan emphasizes collaborative efforts involving youth, the City Council, the school district, and local businesses, focusing on energy efficiency, waste minimization, and transitioning to renewable energy. Key objectives include improving air quality, enhancing public health, and establishing St. Louis Park as a leader in environmental stewardship, with a strong call for community-wide participation to drive action and innovation.

The meeting was called to address a formal notice from Comcast regarding planned transactions that will affect the St. Louis Park franchise, specifically the transfer of the franchise to Midwest Cable. The Commission's role is to evaluate and decide whether to approve or deny this franchise transfer within 120 days. Key discussion points included the need for external consultants to conduct comprehensive legal and financial reviews of Midwest Cable's capability, noting that current documentation is insufficient, particularly regarding financial underpinnings and human capital/employee structure. The commission is exploring joining a collective effort through MACDA to hire a consultant using a sliding scale cost structure, with an estimated maximum cost of $7,500 for St. Louis Park. Other considerations involved potential reimbursement for review costs and the scope of services (cable, phone, internet) that Midwest Cable will assume, including the method for handling educational access fee credits.

The meeting commenced with Superintendent Astin Acai recognizing two long-standing community members, Jim Jaros and Bruce Richardson, for their 16 years of dedicated service to the school district before their retirement. Representatives from the United States Army Recruiting Command also presented commendations to the retiring members. The retiring board member Bruce shared reflections on his tenure, highlighting the importance of the mission statement ("Create Engaged Ignite"), the creation of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, the passage of a major bond referendum, and the strong commitment of the community, staff, and teachers. Jim also reflected on his start in 2001, the challenges faced, and the positive shift in the district's financial health, noting significant accomplishments like achieving a strong fund balance and maintaining a high-functioning, collegial board environment. Both emphasized the positive direction of the district and the quality of leadership provided by the superintendent and staff.

The Climate Action Plan aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. The plan outlines seven midterm goals to reduce the city's overall carbon emissions by 55% by 2030, including a specific goal to reduce energy consumption in residential buildings by 35%. It provides actionable strategies for residents, businesses, and the city to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and the impacts of climate change, developed in partnership with the environment and sustainability committee, high school environmental club, and 'I Matter' nonprofit.