Lafayette School District urges city council to fund crossing guard program

A strong call for enhanced community safety took center stage at the Lafayette City Council meeting on June 9, 2025, as representatives from the Lafayette School District urged the council to fully fund the city's crossing guard program. The program, which plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of students at key intersections, has been a longstanding partnership between the city and the school district.

During the meeting, a school board member emphasized the importance of trained crossing guards, stating, "Their presence makes a measurable difference," and highlighted the risks young children face at school crossings. The board is preparing to vote on a new contract for crossing guard services, but they stressed that the ultimate responsibility for funding lies with the city. "This, in our view, ultimately is a municipal responsibility," they asserted, urging the council to provide the necessary funding for the upcoming year.

In a related discussion, council members debated the allocation of Measure H revenues, with one resident questioning the current budget's spending priorities. The resident pointed out that while funds were earmarked for police and road maintenance, a significant portion was being diverted to public works and administration, raising concerns about transparency in how Measure H funds are being utilized.

The council also discussed various budget requests, including a proposal to stage school buses on high-risk days to facilitate student evacuations during emergencies. This initiative, which would cost approximately $22,500, was met with support from council members who recognized the importance of ensuring student safety during potential wildfire threats.

As the meeting concluded, the council agreed to revisit the crossing guard funding issue in the future, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach to address community safety concerns. The discussions highlighted the ongoing commitment of both the city and the school district to work together for the well-being of Lafayette's residents, particularly its children.