Monitoring and Oversight of General Obligation Bonds to Improve Broward County Schools: SMART Program Quarterly Report

The Broward County Public Schools’ Bond Oversight Committee Quarterly Report for the Quarter Ended March 31, 2023 (“District Quarterly Report”) provides updated information on the mimplementation of the District’s SMART Program and the use of General Obligation Bond funds to purchase and install technology upgrades; purchase music, arts, and theater equipment; improve school safety and security; upgrade athletic facilities; and renovate educational facilities.

The District Quarterly Report consists of an Introduction and the following eight sections:

• Section 1 --- Technology School Board Broward County (SBBC) Schools;

• Section 2 --- Technology Charter Schools;

• Section 3 --- Music, Art, and Theater Equipment;

• Section 4 --- Athletics;

• Section 5 --- Facilities;

• Section 6 --- Budget Activity;

• Section 7 --- Supplier Diversity Outreach Program; and

• Section 8 --- Communications.

The SBBC has provided guidance to the Bond Oversight Committee (BOC) in Section 4 of Resolution Number 15-106 (as amended). In reviewing quarterly reports prepared by District staff, the BOC is charged with:

• Verifying the effective use of bond proceeds and compliance with the purposes set forth in the bond programs as approved by the SBBC;

• Ensuring that bond revenues are expended for the purpose set forth in the bond programs as approved by the SBBC;

• Ensuring that any deferred proposals or changes of plans are executed after appropriate approval of the SBBC;

• Validating that no bond funds are used for any teacher or administrative salaries or other school operating expense; and

• Reviewing efforts by District staff to maximize bond revenues by balancing best value, quality, and efficiency in meeting the bond programs as approved by the SBBC.

To encourage greater accountability, transparency, public support, and confidence in the use of the general obligation bond funds, and to hold the District accountable for spending decisions, Florida TaxWatch has reviewed the District Quarterly Report against the most recent SMART Program schedule and budget and is pleased to present the following report and recommendations.