The amendment dealt with the difficulties inherent in mandatory interconnection, such as problems associated with payment of costs including the cost of false alarms. The overall intent was to foster equitable agreements between school districts and governing bodies of local fire companies and departments, whereby the costs of interconnections would be apportioned fairly. Study of School Fire Alarm Interconnection prepared by State Education Department, Bill Jacket, L 1974, ch 1015, pp 6-17. Governing bodies of school districts, which are charged with the responsibility of school administration, have all the powers reasonably necessary to discharge duties imposed upon them expressly or by implication. It seems clear they may enter into contracts necessary to protect students and school property.
Villages also have general contract authority.
In our view, these provisions authorize the district to contract with the village, through the board of trustees as its governing body, for provision of alarm interconnections with the police department and emergency medical service. These contracts may include provisions for allocating the cost of false alarms. In response to your inquiry, we conclude that the Legislature has authorized agreements between school districts and governing bodies of local fire departments and other emergency service providers that include provisions relating to the costs of alarm interconnections, including costs associated with false alarms. Therefore, your village by contract, through the board of trustees, may provide for the expense of false alarms. The Attorney General renders formal opinions only to officers and departments of State government.