School district, citizens react to bond concerns
BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Last night, Brunswick County school leaders and county commissioners met to discuss the proposed $152 million dollar school bond and how it would be used. Tonight the school system and residents of the county are reacting to some of the questions raised by the commission.
“Redistricting certainly has been a consideration, but it is absolutely not a recommendation, or it would be considered a recommendation of last resort,” said school spokeswoman Jessica Swencki.
The bond would pay for 12 projects aimed at fixing problems like overcrowding, security, and technology. According to Swencki, the original study found over $25o million worth of capital needs and the district identified top priorities.
“The 12 priority projects that have been identified by staff are based on extensive amounts of research as well as our 2012 facility study and a very recent demographics study,” said Swencki.
So what to the tax payers think?
“I’m not in favor of raising taxes but if it’s going to improve our school system, you’re going to have to bite the bullet,” said Brunswick County resident Marilou Cooper. “Of course like a lot of people I moved from out of state, and I was absolutely horrified to find the state of the education in Brunswick County.”
“It won’t break the bank, it won’t cripple people. It’s not like it’s going to any old thing, it’s going towards schools and education so…” said Nicholas Hester who also lives in Brunswick County.
“I don’t think we need to redistrict, I don’t think we need to add to schools, we need to build more schools,” said Cooper.
For those who spoke with us, spending money on students is always worth it.
“One of these kids might be my heart surgeon someday,” said Cooper. “And I wanna make sure that they have the best education possible.”
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