Agenda - 12-11-1991 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Carrboro School System, noted that last year taxes increased two cents. He asked that the bond not be based on the cost of his house. The issue deals with one aspect of the Board of County Commissioners' responsibility, namely, the schools. He asked that the Board of County Commissioners be fair to the citizens by letting them know what the tax increase will be to provide other services for the citizens of Orange County. He asked that they look at the fact that IBM and others are laying off people and some are citizens who live in Chapel Hill and who pay taxes. These families will be having children and they will be leaving. Chapel Hill High School opened in 1967. The students left for lunch then just like they do now so it is nothing new. He asked what effect the special tax will play when the bond comes into play. DICK CLIFFORD stated that Orange County is experiencing substantial growth in student population and it is a challenge for the Board of County Commissioners to meet these needs. Some efforts have been made for better student projections and the estimates are less than the actual figures. Orange County demands a lot from their schools. In general, voters have been more than generous to pay for education. The schools are very well maintained. The teachers make maximum use of the space that is provided. The high school facilities are used to the maximum. The media centers are much better than most in North Carolina. Smaller schools have advantages over larger schools. He urged the Board of County Commissioners to have a bond that is large enough to address the needs. The high school population needs to be decreased and a new building constructed. They also need an elementary and middle school. It appears unanimous that people support the schools and are willing to pay for them. WESLEY WALLACE stated that the schools are facing an increased student population. He wants the Board of County Commissioners to put it on the ballot for May at the highest possible level. He promises that if this money goes for education, those at Carol Woods will help pass the bond. EARL DAVIS, Chairman of the Orange County Tax Union, feels that good things have been brought out on both sides of the issue. He sends his children to school to learn. The Tax Union is very concerned about government spending. It affects the working class of people. A lot of people do not have high income. Their concern is that everyone is pushing for a May election and he questions why it needs to be rushed. He suggested giving people an opportunity to read and understand the issue. His main concern is that property taxes keep increasing. He is concerned about the three is and feels there is a need for basic education. He is not opposed but is concerned about the separation of Chapel Hill and Orange County. It is time for good responsible leader- ship. It is important that everyone work for the people and the children. He asked that the Board of County Commissioners look at other alternatives to a bond referendum. Let the citizens pay a little more and let it accumulate slowly. The year 1992 is a revaluation year and taxes will go up. It would be good to hold things steady. Schools are not an option. Maybe money needs to be set aside yearly. He is asking people in the County to lower costs and administrators to cut programs.