Bloom 206 Board Votes Against 'Censorship' of Members

If things went a little differently Monday night, the way Bloom 206 board members deal with the media would have changed.

The nearly voted on the first reading of a policy that would require the board to designate one individual to act as the voice of the board on particular issues and decisions.

"This is based on subject matter that could cause the district potential liability," said district attorney Michael DeBartolo. "It makes sure the actions of the board are given a clear voice."

Board member Robert Rossi, spoke out against the change in policy, arguing that it blocked board members, who are elected officials, from having an open rapport with voters.

"It sounds to me like my conversations are going to be censored," Rossi said. "I'm a school board member elected by the people of Bloom Township. It I want to discuss what's going on with a person on the street, I believe I'm allowed to do it."

Because it was only the first reading, the policy would have gone through further discussions before it was finally implemented, but board member Patricia Donahue withdrew her motion to discuss and vote on the first reading after hearing Rossi's argument.

"I'm not in favor of the censorship either," Donahue said.

Afterwards, Rossi made a motion to keep the policy as-is and not institute any changes to how the board deals with the media.

Rossi's motion was approved with he, Donahue, Board President Henry Drake and Secretary Donald Aprati all voting in favor of it. Board members Anthony Murphy and William Angell voted against the new motion. Beverly Goncher was absent.

With the approval the current board policy on communications will go unchanged.

After the meeting, Rossi said he did not believe the board would support him on keeping the policy the same.

In the past, Rossi has spoken to the media freely on several divisive issues, including and his disagreement with .