Voters overwhelmingly rejected both the bond and override measures sought by the Tolleson Union High School District in Tuesday’s election on Tuesday. Critics say voters’ concerns about the district’s leadership was the primary driver.
In October, Arizona lawmakers approved a special audit amid allegations of financial mismanagement and safety failures in the district.
The special audit request follows the increasing concerns regarding the district’s questionable financial decisions. These concerns include the transfer of $20 million to the Isaac Elementary School District, the proposed construction of an $80 million sports dome, and allegations of mismanagement of taxpayer funds for district administrators.
“Voters have spoken clearly,” said Representative Matt Gress on Wednesday. “The defeat of these measures represents a major shift—roughly a forty-point swing from the district’s previous bond and override approvals. That kind of reversal doesn’t happen by chance. It reflects taxpayers’ deep concern over how their money is being managed and the direction of district leadership.”
“When a school district refuses to provide basic financial records to the Legislature, delays responses to lawful requests, and continues pursuing an $80 million domed stadium while facing an active recall effort, public trust deteriorates quickly. The Tolleson Union Governing Board should halt any further work on the stadium until transparency is restored and confidence is rebuilt,” said Gress.
“The people of Tolleson have made their position clear: accountability must come before new spending. The Legislature will continue seeking the financial information needed to ensure that taxpayer funds are used responsibly,” concluded Gress.
Gress first requested Tolleson Union’s financial transaction data on August 26 following a legislative audit hearing on district finances. The district has since refused to provide electronic copies and is demanding more than $26,000 in fees. He clarified the request again on September 17, but as of this week—49 days after his most recent correspondence—the district has yet to comply.
RELATED ARTICLE:
Arizona Legislature Approves Special Audit of Tolleson Union High School District
Be the first to comment