The January 15, 2025, FPS School Board Meeting in Wisconsin was marked by a heated discussion surrounding the costs associated with a recent referendum. Board member Linda Witkowski pressed for transparency regarding the financial expenditures on consultants related to the referendum, emphasizing the need for accountability in the use of public funds.

Witkowski's inquiry sparked a debate about the board's process for handling individual requests for information. She argued that understanding the costs incurred during the referendum is essential for effective oversight. "It's a simple financial oversight of the board. How much was budgeted and how much do we spend?" she stated, insisting that the information should be readily available.

The conversation highlighted a divide among board members regarding the appropriateness of individual inquiries and the potential impact on administrative operations. Some members expressed concern that allowing one board member to request information could disrupt the governance process. However, others, including board member Debbie, supported Witkowski's request, asserting that as public officials, board members have the right to ask questions about spending.

Ultimately, the board agreed to provide the requested information, with a consensus that it should be a straightforward process. The discussion underscored the ongoing challenge of balancing individual board member inquiries with the collective governance responsibilities of the board.

As the meeting concluded, the board moved into a closed session to evaluate the district administrator's goals, signaling a commitment to ongoing oversight and evaluation of district leadership. The meeting wrapped up with a unanimous vote to approve actions taken in the closed session, reinforcing the board's collaborative approach to governance.