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Phoenix City Council Formal Meeting Meeting - June 17, 2026
Published: Jun 17, 2026
Phoenix Elementary Board Authorizes Phase II of Energy Savings Plan with Varagy, Secures Lease Financing
The board approved the resolution authorizing Phase II of the district's energy savings plan with Varagy and the solicitation of lease financing proposals. This phase will focus on nine schools, implementing LED lighting, HVAC upgrades, solar arrays, and building envelope improvements. The project is designed to be self-funded through existing utility budgets and aims for budget neutrality, with projected lifetime savings of over $13 million for Phase II alone. Federal incentives, including direct pay from the IRS under the Inflation Reduction Act, are expected to provide significant rebates (30-40% of the solar portion). Construction is planned to begin almost immediately, with work often occurring after school hours or during breaks to minimize disruption. The district will also benefit from hands-on STEM learning opportunities related to the solar installations.
Phoenix Elementary Board Votes to Cancel Student Outcomes Focused Governance (SOFG) Framework
The board voted 3-2 to cancel the Student Outcomes Focused Governance (SOFG) framework. Board members voting in favor expressed concerns that SOFG narrowed the board's focus primarily to academic goals, limiting their ability to address broader issues like school safety, facilities, and community engagement. They argued that the model diminished transparency and public oversight, and that it had not sufficiently demonstrated improvements in student outcomes. Board members voting against expressed concerns that cancelling SOFG without an alternative in place would create instability and a lack of structure. They suggested modifying the existing framework or developing a new one through a strategic planning committee over time, emphasizing the need for continuity and a structured approach to governance. The motion to cancel was made by Board Member Erenss, seconded by Board Member Trillo, and ultimately passed with votes from Trillo, Edmonston, and Erenss, while Sundal and President Oay voted no.
Phoenix Elementary Board Approves Purchase of Solar System from PED Energy LLC
The board voted unanimously to approve the purchase of an existing solar photovoltaic system from PED Energy LLC. The motion was made by Board Member Trujillo and seconded by Board Member Trillo. The vote count was: Trujillo (Yes), Sandival (Yes), Vice President Edmonston (Yes), Board Member Erenss (Yes), and President Oay (Yes).
Phoenix Elementary Explores Partnership with SESI to Stabilize Special Education Program Amidst Staffing Crisis
The board discussed a proposal to partner with Special Education Services Incorporated (SESI) to manage the RISE program for students with emotional disabilities, addressing a critical teacher turnover rate of 80-100% and chronic staffing instability. SESI, a nationally recognized vendor accredited by Cognia, would provide comprehensive services including certified teachers, instructional assistants, behavior support, and program leadership. This partnership aims to offer uninterrupted therapeutic care and improve student outcomes, as evidenced by SESI's data showing gains in reading, math, and behavior goals. The cost comparison shows the SESI proposal as potentially more cost-effective than current operational costs, which are inflated due to reliance on staffing agencies, and significantly less expensive than outsourcing to private placements. The proposal, named 'Spark', would allow the district's Exceptional Student Services department to shift to an oversight and support role. The board also discussed the importance of community involvement in setting goals and guardrails, and the need for a new governance model that allows for broader board engagement.
Phoenix Elementary District Reviews FY27 Budget Amidst Enrollment Decline
The board reviewed the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget, highlighting a projected 18% decline in student enrollment over two years, which translates to an approximate 3% decline in classroom spending. The budget details include a base level amount of \$5,215 per student, a revenue control limit of \$30.2 million, and a projected budget balance carryforward of \$1 million. The district anticipates an 18% enrollment decline from FY26 to FY27, with projected enrollment of 5,525 students compared to 4,600 students currently funded. Despite enrollment losses, the budget aims to keep spending in the classroom, with an 11.1% decrease in general fund expenditures offset by an 8.4% increase in the classroom site fund. The capital budget is projected at \$6.3 million, with stable tax rates from FY26 to FY27. The district also noted that kindergarteners are funded at 50% and preschool is not funded unless it's for severe disabilities. The final adoption of the budget is scheduled for July 9th, which will include a public hearing.
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