T.O. can't shift money to schools, city attorney says

Councilmember Claudia Billde la Peña failed to pass a motion for the city to see if it was feasible for money promised to Conejo Recreation and Park District for Lang Ranch Park, redevelopment money for the Discovery Center, funding for upgrading the Civic Arts Plaza structure or other funds to be diverted to help prevent the school district from having to close two elementary schools.

"I understand it's just a BandAid. It would buy time to come up with solutions," Bill-de la Peña said.

The City Council voted 4-1 against the motion after City Attorney Amy Albano said it was illegal for redevelopment money to be used that way.

The staff also refused to give Bill-de la Peña a time when members could return with the information she was requesting.

Mayor Jacqui Irwin also objected to Bill-de la Peña's motion.

Irwin said it would be fiscally irresponsible because the city was looking for recurring revenues and not one-time funds.

Fox said that attempting to pay for recurring revenues with onetime funds was how the city of Los Angeles got into financial trouble.

City Manager Scott Mitnick explained a city cannot legally subsidize a school district. There's a reason that cities and schools are separate legal entities, he said.

Bill-de la Peña's attempt brought applause from the crowd. She said she thought the education of children was more pressing than luxury items.

A decision was made to direct city staffers to work with schools and parks districts and the county to address all possible funding options.

- Nancy Needham