CITY OF HOMER
HOMER, ALASKA

MAYOR

RESOLUTION 03-52

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF HOMER, ALASKA, ENCOURAGING THE STATE OF ALASKA TO CONTINUE TO SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY SCHOOLS PROGRAM AT CURRENT LEVELS.

WHEREAS, the State of Alaska has recognized the value of Community Schools in promoting “a more efficient use of school facilities through an extension of buildings and equipment beyond the normal school day,” as expressed in state statute; and

WHEREAS, the Community Schools program in Homer provides a wide variety of classes and activities with a focus on practical information, safety, and health to benefit students of all ages in their daily lives; and

WHEREAS, Community Schools classes are very popular with Homer-area residents, with more than 8,000 youth and adult registrations each year; and

WHEREAS, the local community has been very supportive of the Community Schools Program, providing approximately 85% of the operating funds as well as 3,000 volunteer hours each year; and

WHEREAS, the remaining 15% of operating revenue, provided by the State of Alaska, is critical for maintaining a quality Community Schools program in Homer; and

WHEREAS, user fees would have to be increased significantly to compensate for a loss in state funding, which would have the effect of discouraging participation, particularly for low-income residents; and

WHEREAS, the strength of a society depends on the vitality of its communities, with school-based programs being a key component in a community’s quality of life;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Homer City Council strongly encourages the Alaska Legislature and the Murkowski administration to continue state support of the Community Schools Program, with no reduction in funding.

PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE HOMER CITY COUNCIL this 24th day of March, 2003.

CITY OF HOMER

Jack Cushing, Mayor

ATTEST:

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Mary L. Calhoun, City Clerk
Fiscal Impact: Potential loss of program.