The Town Council approved a resolution in support of public education and funding for teachers at its regular session on Feb. 6.

While education is the purview of the school board and not normally a concern for the council, three council members brought the resolution before the council calling on the State Legislature and Governor Doug Ducey to improve funding for public schools.

The resolution states simply that the council has “serious concern” about education funding levels, in particular teacher salaries.

The resolution further calls on the elected officials of all towns and cities in the State of Arizona to follow suit with similar resolutions of support.

Councilmembers Alan Magazine, Nick DePorter and Henry Leger initiated the resolution.

“The legislature says they can’t fund [education],” Magazine said. “I think it is critically important to keep the pressure on the legislature.”

The resolution had support from the president of the Arizona PTA, in a letter read by Vicky Derksen. The local school board was represented by comments from Board President Edith Stock, and several other citizens spoke to the council including retired educator, Tom Lindsey.

“I commend you and thank you for this resolution,” Lindsey said. “As a superintendent during the recession, it was very difficult making budget cuts.

“This is in the best interest of the community and important to the people.”

“The skeletal crews we have do all they can for our teachers,” Stock said. “We are able to survive through the meticulous efforts of [Finance Director] Dr. Robert Allen, sometimes referred to as ‘Dr. No.’

“A consistent source of income is needed across the state. Your support will be so valuable.”

DePorter said he jumped at the opportunity to support the resolution when Magazine asked him. He has two small children just entering the local school system.

“Our schools are fantastic,” DePorter said. “I would do anything to support the teachers.”

Councilman Cecil Yates said he fully supported the resolution, but asked Magazine whether they should strengthen it with specifics.

“Would you want to call for an increase of one-percent or five-percent,” Yates said. “I’m totally on board with you on this.”

“I would certainly consider any amount, but I think it may be a little dicey to speak specifics,” Magazine said.

Mayor Linda Kavanagh said she would support a resolution offering support for Ducey’s budget proposal.

“I can’t support the governor’s budget, because I don’t think it is enough,” Magazine said.

Vice Mayor Dennis Brown also suggested strengthening the language.

“I think the resolution is OK - just OK,” Brown said. “It should have a little more backbone. To say this is what we need is missing the boat. I think we can give this a little more thought.”

Magazine said he loved the fact that others wanted to put more teeth in the language and might consider a delay in taking action.

Councilman Art Tolis said stronger language might defeat the purpose.

“I think it is appropriate as it stands now,” Tolis said. “The language states the importance of the issue. This is a great first step to encourage others to get on board.”

Tolis said keeping the language simple makes it easier for other elected officials to align without finding something to disagree with.

Kavanagh said she agreed that getting more specific could result in more resistance in other communities.

The council voted 7-0 to support the resolution. Town Manager Grady Miller said he would prepare a cover letter and send the resolution to other public officials.