“The problem with that is that you have to post the job for 30 days,” she said. “After the vacancy has been posted for 30 days, then you can do whatever you want.”

Tuesday’s hearing, Campbell said, has no bearing on the fact that there is no superintendent. The hearing will focus on alleged open meetings violations.

The vacancy has not been posted, and Campbell said 30 days is shortest posting permitted.

Finances should also be taken into consideration in selecting a search firm, Hicks said.

“We talk about funding and saving money and spending,” he said. “What if we hire someone and put them on payroll and then the case may or may not go in our favor. Fr the sake of argument, we’ll say it does not work in the board’s favor. Then we’ve got two people on the payroll.”

During discussions, Hicks also became frustrated at the approach some board members had toward the discussion.

“This is not funny, this is our children’s’ future,” he said. “I don’t think this is something to play with.”

In the end, all members agreed to delay selection.