1991 - 08-19-91 Regular Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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0 0 Boos 13 Pr,sr NG than those at the Deep River School. Mr. Winstead stated that Jonesboro School would not be replaced and that the students attending Jonesboro School, as well as those in the other school districts, would be reallocated as to where they would be attending school once all the buildings were completed. In the plan, a new Deep River School would serve more than twice the amount of students it will serve with next year's reorganization, for a total of 650 to 700 students. Following the Board's discussion, several concerned individuals were heard. Mr. Fred Garner expressed his concern about voting on the bond issue until more detailed information about the projects are presented to the public. Mr. Woody Woodcock, who resides on Hawkins Run, reiterated Mr. Garner's concern, adding that he understands that his children might be attending Deep River School if the issue is adopted. Ms. Ernestine Bridges also requested more information before a decision is made. Mr. George Riddle and Mr. Lloyd Atkins each stated that Deep River School should be built at its current site. Chairman Stafford thanked all the citizens attending the meeting for expressing their concerns and for their support. Commissioner Paschal moved to table the decision for a $15 million bond referendum. Commissioner Matthews seconded the motion, and upon a vote the results were as follows: Aye: Cox, Matthews, Paschal, Reives, Stafford, and Wicker Nay: Hall vote. The Chairman ruled the motion had been adopted by a six to one Following a brief recess, Chairman Stafford stated that he recently met with representatives from the Department of Social Services, the County Manager, Lisa Shearer, and Commissioner Reives to discuss budgeting, foster care, and other programs that could be implemented with or that were related to the Hillcrest Youth Home. He reported that representatives from the Department of Social Services indicated that foster care services would not be adequate if Hillcrest was closed. A foster home care recruiter has been employed by the County; however, it would be several months before he would be able to recruit adequate foster care homes that would be needed should Hillcrest discontinue its services to homeless and runaway youth or to children under a set age limit. The Chairman also reported that converting Hillcrest Home to a regional facility or to an emergency facility, providing a limited time stay only, was also discussed. Commissioner Cox commended Commissioner Reives' time and efforts in researching and analyzing the Hillcrest Youth Home program. County Manager Cowan presented a short-term budget cost of operating the facility with adequate houseparents staff through the 8