The public has one more chance to provide input on the Greater Victoria School District budget tonight, with possible cuts to music programs, family counsellors and other services continuing to cause concern.
That concern has led to a series of demonstrations, including one on May 15 where people lined Douglas Street from Boleskine Road to the legislature.
The 2021-22 budget was originally scheduled to be finalized May 17 but was postponed in large part due to feedback from the community.
The final vote is now set for Monday, with a second meeting scheduled for Tuesday in case more time is needed.
After delaying the budget vote, the district brought in former Saanich School District secretary-treasurer Joan Axford to serve as an adviser and look over the budget document. Greater Victoria School Board trustees are dealing with a $7-million deficit as part of the $253-million budget.
“We’re grateful to Joan Axford for taking the time to bring her fresh eyes and perspective to the budget process,” said board chair Jordan Watters. “I think her report’s going to be really useful to us in finding a good way forward.”
Axford’s report is now available on the district website at sd61.bc.ca.
“It is clear that the senior management endeavoured to provide very detailed information around the budget and options,” she said in the report. “There is a need, however, for documentation which summarizes the full picture and provides clear implications of the options.”
Tonight’s virtual meetings starts at 6:30 p.m. Speakers must register in advance by noon at [email protected].
