Resolution Process

All ESDs are required by statute to provide specified services to schools either by resolution or contract. Other programs an ESD offers are determined through the resolution process for all school districts within its jurisdiction or by contract with individual districts for specific services. The resolution process requires two-thirds of school district boards representing a majority of the students in the ESD district to approve ESD programs. This approval of resolutions is required annually. (ORS 334.175 and 334.185)

Usually, superintendents from districts an ESD serves act as advisers to the ESD superintendent in determining which programs are recommended for initiation, continuation or elimination. The superintendents also recommend the levels of spending for resolution programs.

Resolution programs are financed by the ESD’s district-wide property taxes within the Oregon’s constitutional tax rate and assessment limitations (Oregon Constitution, Article 11, Section 11) and an allocation to ESDs from the State School Fund plus, in some areas, the participating districts. In addition, ESD budgets are reviewed by Budget Committees made up of a majority of local school board members. (See Financial Status.)

In cases where ESD programs are provided as a contracted service, the local districts pay for the service. The charges are based on the cost of the service provided.

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