NEWPORT BEACH : School Board Defers Advisory Panel Idea

The Newport-Mesa Unified School District Board of Education this week put off a request to form a citizens advisory group to help the district examine its growing budget problems, even though most board members approved of the idea.

The plan was proposed two weeks ago by an informal group of parents whose members are concerned about the budget decisions the board must make in grappling with a projected $3.7-million shortfall for the 1992-93 school year.

“I am in favor of a budget advisory committee . . . and I would like to see us continue discussing this action in the fall,” board member Martha Fluor said.

The board agreed to take up the issue again at the start of the next school year. Most members said it was too late in the budget cycle this year to try to involve an advisory group, since the board hopes to have its budget in place within a month.

Parents with the group did not discuss the proposal with the board Tuesday but earlier had said that they are concerned about some cuts the board is considering and that they may be able to offer better alternatives.

The board has tentatively approved cuts in Costa Mesa High School’s farm, eliminating the elementary school physical education program, slashes in the athletics transportation budget and fees for being bused to school.

Some board members opposed the advisory group, saying parents and others concerned about district affairs should bring their issues to board meetings in a public forum. But most members of the board were receptive to the idea of an advisory panel.

“I support us looking carefully at the formation of a group that can advise us on a regular basis,” board member Edward H. Decker said. “I don’t see it as a burdensome hurdle or obstacle. I see it as a way to invite others to the discussion of the budget.”