Agenda - 12-11-1991 - Laserfiche WebLink

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BOB REEBER, Chapel Hill, spoke in support of the schools. He stated that now is a good time to build a school because the interest rates are low. This will also help the economy. If schools are not built now, prisons will be built in 15 years. He asked that the Board do it in May and do it for more than 66 million. He asked that every school be brought up to specification. He supports 12 month schools. GEORGE KINGMAN indicated he does not want to pay taxes but the cost of education is one that needs to be confronted. Scrimping on education will mean more funds on social programs. He pledges as a retired person on a limited income that he will support the bond issue. MIKE BROWN, Orange County Schools, feels the figures are what they should be but asked if people can afford a bond referendum. He wants the money spent wisely. There is disparity between the two systems. They both have honest -to- goodness needs. The County does not have the programs that are offered in Chapel Hill. The needs are there. He wants both to get what they need. He doesn't know if May is the right time. There are a lot of businesses cutting back. He would support 66 million. He asked if these figures are where they need to be. He recognizes the need for facilities for the students but stated that the real process takes place in the classroom between the student and the teacher. MARY BOBBITT- COOKE, member of the Orange County School Board, stated that the dollar numbers are not based on numbers that are realistic but exaggerated. There are counties that are building excellent schools for much less money. The committee did not deal with other creative ways than brick and mortar. Year round schools were not considered as a more creative way. She questions if people can afford this bond issue. The university is downsizing because of the state's shortfall and there are layoffs in the Triangle Park area. She asked if the 1990's will mirror the 1980's as far as growth. She feels the county taxpayers will ask these questions. She is concerned that the Board of County Commissioners took out the technology package. The districts recognize each others need. She will support a bond package that will include technology and real figures for all students. BILL DORSETT stated that he opposes this bond as proposed. He would support doing this through sales taxes. MAX KENNEDY stated that the bond package is in deep trouble in both ends of the County. There are people out there who will not support this bond package because there are a lot of people who are not insulated against economic insecurity. He believes that any bond is going to be in serious trouble. The people will be voting against higher taxes and not against education. The referendum will stand a better chance in May than November. The growth in northern Orange County will not catch up with Chapel Hill because of the inadequate supply of water. With no further comments, the public hearing was closed. Chair Carey adjourned the meeting at 11:03 p.m. The next regular meeting will