THOUSAND OAKS : City Considers Paying for Crossing Guard
Thousand Oaks officials are considering temporarily funding one of two school crossing guard positions cut this summer by the county Board of Supervisors.
Crossing guards at the intersections of Camino Manzanas at Marian Avenue and Wendy Drive at Ruth Avenue have shepherded children to Madrona and Walnut elementary schools. The county used to pay all of the Walnut crossing guard’s salary and half the Madrona guard’s.
But the positions were cut in July because of funding shortfalls, officials said.
City Manager Grant Brimhall will ask the City Council on Tuesday to consider paying for the Madrona crossing guard for six months while encouraging the county to contribute at least 15% of the $4,200 cost. The Walnut crossing guard would not be restored under Brimhall’s plan.
The city manages crossing guards at 30 other sites, but the county funded the two positions needed to protect students at intersections in unincorporated territory.
City Councilwoman Elois Zeanah said she was not happy about taking on a new expense but would consider it on an interim basis.
“Education and public safety are everyone’s concern and responsibility,” Zeanah said.
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