Revenue Enhancements Can't Be The Whole Answer

By Mark Nelson

To think that Redondo Beach schools can operate on donations -- either corporate or private -- is to engage in a fantasy. RBUSD should aggressively employ contract grant writers and approach local corporations, however, that revenue is unstable and cannot be relied upon for core expenditures. A balanced budget, built up from a zero-based philosophy is the only way to assure the long term success of the district.

While corporate and private donations, grants and program monies are both valuable and welcome, they are not stable sources of revenue. Perhaps the RBUSD should seek a local tax to support schools. That would be both predictable and permanent, however, the district cannot rely upon donations for core programs.

If elected, I will move the district toward zero-based budgeting. That means no program or expenditure is sacred, and all expenditures must be priortized and justified. This process can provide RBUSD with the order and discipline it lacks to return to a balanced budget. It will also provide RBUSD with the ability to understand which discretionary programs can be funded by unstable sources, such as grants, donations, and gifts. When, NOT IF, those sources dry up or fluctuate, such discretionary programs can be terminated until funding is again available.

The most important issue facing RBUSD is the inability of the current Board to live within its budget. Currently it spends at least $500K annually from its reserves, and is now well below the traditional state required reserve level.

Let's get fiscally responsible. Join me and vote for Mark Nelson on March 8, 2005.