Minutes - 19850204 - Laserfiche WebLink

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~6 ~ see permanent agenda file for narrative Chair willhoit summara.zed the purpose and gave his reasons for the formulation of a study commission on~merger of Orange County school systems. He identified specific items that the study comamisison should consider and suggested a 10 member commission plus the superintendents and Chairs of the Schaal boards or~their designees. Commissioner Carey agreed with the establishment of a study commis- sion and suggested adding to the charge a study of the tax implications. Commissioner Marshall expressed endorsement of a study commission and suggested adding to the charge consideration of population and geographical equities of the merged school board. ~- Norman Haithcock, Chair of the Orange County School Board, indicated that the orange County legislative delegation had.nat expressed any interest in consolidating Orange County Schools. He requested a delay in appointing a study commission until the School Board has an opportunity to meet and discuss the implications. He questioned if the formation of a study commission would cause a delay in the capital improvements plan approved by the Board of Commissioners. He pointed out he felt there was a lot of opposition to consolidation from both ends of the County. Chair Willhoit assured Mr. Haithcock that this initiative would not have any immediate impact on plans that were previously approved. `here is specific information which is needed in order far the Board to be in a better position to respond if the issue does occur in the General Assembly. On the long term there is a need to look at the issue and the~impacts..With I-~0 and an increase in growth there will be a change in the pattern of development. Specific information is needed so the Beard can understand and ressond to such issues and needs. He emphasized this is not a proposal far implerr~ntatian of merger. Brenda Alexander, citizen of Orange County, asked several questions about the~proposal for the study commission. the requested information about the procedure that will be used to select those to serve on this ca~m~issian. Also, she~questioned haw the Schaal supplement tax which is paid by Chapel Hill Carrboro Sc~oals would affect those who live in Northern Orange County. Chair Willhait indicated that the Board of Commissioners would appoint the commission members taking into consideration geographical balance. In answer to the question about the tax rate, he indicated one purpose of the study will be to l~.st the monetary advantages and disadvantages taking into consideration the potential savings that will be realized due to sharing pro grans and facilities. Alexander read a statement indicating disagreement with the proposal to form a study c~ission for the merging of the two school syster~s. Co~mU.ssioner Lloyd indicated opposition to the study commission but indicated he may, in the future, upon the recommendation from the two school boards endorse such a commission. . Commissioner Carey agreed that the school boards should be directly involved in any decision to proceed on any information that such a study commission would provide but that the focus must be based on fact. Commissioner Marshall pointed out the study ccm~mission is to get information and facts for discussion. there is no preconceived determination on the merger but a desire for additional information. the school boards will be given an opportunity to respond to the~find~.ngs of the commission, r~ r...