The Fight is On, Again

Things got a little hot in Jefferson County last week, as the County Commission convened for their Work Session. Despite the Budget Committee presenting a balanced budget document with no tax increase for the fiscal year 2016/17, there seemed to be little joy in the meeting room. Tensions ran high as the Department of Education made their appeal for funds to address lighting issues at the Jefferson County High School Football Field and paving for Jefferson County High School.

Several Commissioners took exception to another emergency need, wondering aloud when the costly emergencies would cease and planning for capital needs would begin. It wasn’t long ago that around $400,000 was directed toward issues at the football field but the lighting issue didn’t come to , well, light, until just a few weeks ago. Some found the timing questionable, unable to fathom why the lighting wasn’t checked before, when other needs were addressed. Other Commissioners were concerned that there appears to be a never ending stream of emergency needs at the tail end of a costly building program.

Paving, too, appeared to be an issue. While there is enough left in various funds to take a big swipe at the $750,000 price tag for full paving the problem rests with the County Commission. The Department of Education cannot tap into most of the funds left over from various projects unless the County Commission gives approval. And, many of the County Commission appear to be disinclined to give the Department of Education the nod.

For their part, the County Commission has their own eye on a fiscal prize. They want the Department of Education to turn over any monies that are awarded in a legal suit regarding the collapse of Building 8. Of course, the money may come or the money may not come. Who knows? But, most are looking for some verbal commitment from the School Board regarding any money gained from their suit. So far, they are still looking.

Unless something gives, I highly suspect that the County Commission will not graciously turn over any funding to the School Board, paving needs or not. I understand that the Commission cut all local dollars from the Capital Projects Budget and most of us applaud the spirit of the action. But sometimes things and items lose luster in the bright light of day. Without Capital Projects money, every need will be an emergency. But, and this is a big but, the County Commission paid for the renovation to Building 8, so shouldn’t any money won from a law suit belong to the County Commission? It seems logical.

If Monday’s Work Session is any indicator, both sides are prepared to go to war over money that may never come. Not exactly riveting news to anyone who has spent even a little bit of time trying to digest the dynamics of the County Commission and the Department of Education. Prepare for round two. Ding. Ding. The fight is on, again.