Broward voters strongly approve monitor for county’s public schools

Broward voters passed a landmark referendum Tuesday night to subject corrupt public school districts to expanded scrutiny from the county inspector general.

The Broward County Office of Inspector General has investigative authority over elected officials and appointed officials countywide. Now, thanks to the overwhelming passage of District Referendum 2 by a margin of 68% to 32%, that watchful eye will extend to the Broward school board, the superintendent and all district employees.

The outcome from voters is likely a response to the school board scandals of the past few years.

These included the suspension of four board members two years ago by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on the recommendation of a statewide grand jury for incompetence, dereliction of duty and abuse of power.

Currently, the board relies on its own internal auditors, the State Attorney’s Office and the state Ethics Commission for oversight.

The Broward school board will foot the $1.2 million annual bill for the county’s new, dedicated schools superintendent general’s office. However, there will be no tax increase associated with this measure.