Belleville District 201 approves $8M line of credit | Belleville News-Democrat

The shortest meeting yet this year for Belleville District 201 continued one tradition that’s been alive much longer: The friendly rivalry between principals Rich Mertens of Belleville West and Jason Karstens of East.

This year, Belleville West is graduating 521 students on Wednesday, but Karstens gets bragging rights because East is graduating 523 on Tuesday night. Both principals have been practicing the seniors names in advance of the ceremonies.

The District 201 school board got a late start from the planned time of 5:30 p.m., but had a quorum by 5:55 p.m. and were adjourned by 6:10 p.m.

Board action

▪  The board approved a resolution for a line of credit of $8 million. Assistant Superintendent Brian Mentzer has previously talked to the board about the line of credit, and re-emphasized that “this is precautionary” and will be used only if there are cash-flow problems because of delayed payments to the district.

▪ Approved the district calendar for the 2016-2017 school year, as well as changes to the handbook and an agreement between the county’s Regional Office of Education and the district for the Safe School Program.

▪  Under personnel, the board approved employment of chairpersons, co-curricular assignments, adjunct coaches and more for the 2016-2017 school year. Summer school staff was also approved, pending enrollment needs.

▪  The board approved hiring Rice Sullivan LLC to complete the financial audit.