Legislators working hard on school split

Pignanelli: Aaahh. Lake Powell. Utah's famous water spot has inspired artists, architects and engineers for decades. The recreational site also brings enlightenment to politicians. Karen Morgan, a Sandy Democratic legislator, was distraught two weeks ago over the trench warfare between all parties favoring or opposing smaller school districts. Morgan wanted to address the needs of her constituents screaming for change but acknowledged such adjustments required deliberation.

The situation two weeks ago was dire. Powerful east bench lawmakers drafted an equalization bill to assist in the district splitting process. Although helpful to Jordan School District, it was disastrous for Salt Lake City School District. (Note: My partner and I were hired to represent Salt Lake City in the special session.) Because of strong personalities involved, the special session was on track to create lawsuits and greater antagonism between school districts. Morgan, a recognized legislative expert on educational matters, realized the ultimate victims would be students. While floating in the warm waters of Lake Powell, she developed an elegant

solution that allowed Jordan District residents to proceed with the vote regardless of any county opposition.

The special session provided an interesting glimpse into when the process works — especially because of insightful solons:

•In an interesting twist, it was two female Democratic lawmakers — Morgan and Patricia Jones (the Senate co-sponsor) — who fashioned a solution that saved face for their colleagues and prevented a costly battle.

•Salt Lake City Council members worked ferociously to establish lines of communications with conservative lawmakers, usually grumpy about capital city politics. They articulated well that the equalization proposal would destroy the inner-city schools.

•Draper Republican Greg Hughes was instrumental as a liaison in constructing a viable solution. Price Democrat Mike Dmitrich ensured a rational protection of both urban and rural interests.

•Even the opposition to Morgan's bill, as demonstrated through the articulate speeches of West Valley senators Ed Mayne and Michael Waddoups, will provide guidance as the equalization issue is considered in the future.

•Morgan's bill supplied a springboard for comprehensive discussions regarding statewide funding of education that will occur between now and January.

•Legislative leadership (Speaker Greg Curtis and President John Valentine) deserves credit for allowing diplomacy to triumph.

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