ATGLEN, PA — At the Octorara School Board meeting on September 18, local resident Melissa Falgiatore accused the board of failing to provide proper public notice for its meetings as required by Pennsylvania law. She also raised concerns about the incomplete publishing of the minutes from the September 11 meeting on the school website.
Falgiatore pointed out that her husband, board member Anthony Falgiatore’s statement, made at the September 11 meeting, was only marked as Appendix-A and was missing from public view. Mr. Falgiatore has responded in frustration over a perceived breach of confidentiality and alleged harassment directed toward him and his wife.
The accusations relate to Anthony Falgiatore’s opposition to the attorney’s fee payments for a lawsuit initiated by John Ryan Miller. The suit alleges the board’s comment policy violates the constitution and infringes on Miller’s rights. All board members, except for Falgiatore, were named, along with members of the district’s staff, the Chester County District Attorney, the Pennsylvania State Police, and local police.
Falgiatore argues that the board members named in the suit are being sued as private individuals, not as representatives of the district. Therefore, he contends, the district’s money should not be used for their defense.
After being informed of the alleged notice violation, and confirming that the agenda was not posted until after 10:30 a.m. on the day of the meeting, Board President Samuel Ganow announced a brief recess to address the matter. Subsequently, the board reconvened and decided to adjourn the public meeting until it could be rescheduled.
According to Pennsylvania law, agencies are required to post their meeting agenda, including all matters of agency business for discussion or official action, on their website at least 24 hours before the meeting. The agenda should also be displayed at the meeting location and the agency’s main office.
In response to these developments, the Octorara School Board has since announced a rescheduled Regular Meeting of the Octorara Area School District Board of Directors for September 25, 2023. The meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Jr. High Multi-Purpose Room.
Prior to this, the Education Committee meeting will be held at 6:00 p.m. on September 25, 2023, in Jr. High Room 102.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and adherence to legal requirements in school board operations. The rescheduled meetings will be closely watched for their compliance with Pennsylvania law and the handling of the ongoing controversies.
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