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Allen Belch spoke in opposition to the full funding of the school budget request. He stated that the School Board and administration have not been responsive to the needs of the citizens. He mentioned that according to his figures, in 1994-1995 the Chapel Hill-Carrboro system received an additional 4.5 million dollars over the 1993-1994 school year. He questioned where that money was being spent. He asked that the schools be required to live within the parameters set for other county services. The increase in the school budget operating costs must be held to no more than a 20 increase. Peter Morcombe stated that he supports high quality education, however, how that occurs is of great concern to him. He requested that zero-based budgeting be implemented.. He mentioned that the private schools are more fiscally responsible and the Board of County Commissioners must require the public schools to follow the example being set by private schools. John Reinhard, a parent of three children, spoke in support of quality education. He asked that the Board of Commissioners hold the line on the school budget and ensure that the schools make the best use of all funds they receive. He asked that schools be built which are within the financial means of the community, that certified teachers working as administrators be required to participate in classroom activities, and that experimental teaching fads be discarded. Bill Elstran stated that he believes that the school system is not spending funds wisely. He asked that the Board of Commissioners require a greater level of accountability. Also, the classroom teachers need to be receiving a greater percentage of the overall budget than they currently receive. Clifton Metcalf, a representative of the Chapel Hill Library Board of Trustees, thanked the Board of Commissioners for their continued support. He also requested additional funding. The library is experiencing tremendous growth at the present time. Circulation is up 44.50, patron visits are up 42.40 with over 330 of the collection in circulation at all times. The library cannot meet the communities expectations with the present budget. The Chapel Hill Town Council has responded positively to the request for financial assistance, however, they cannot shoulder the full burden. A report on use and financial challenges is in the Clerk's office in the permanent agenda file. Commissioner Willhoit asked for clarification on the possibility of instituting user fees for patrons who live outside the Town and/or the County. Mr. Metcalf replied that there are very few out-of-county users (400-500 total) and they are charged $30.00 per year. However, out- of-town patrons who reside within the County may not be charged a fee due to State regulations.