Local residents packed the Obion County Courthouse Courtroom Monday night to hear about financial issues facing the county school system.
A joint orientation session between the Obion County School Board and County Commission delivered factual information concerning the need for additional funding.
The meeting began with Commissioner Danny Jowers explaining a drop in the number of county residents since 1970, along with the loss of over 5,000 individuals between the age of 0-and-19 during that time.
Jowers also reported the county student number of 2,852, which has dropped over 900 in the last ten years.
Director of Schools Tim Watkins took the podium and explained the stance of the school board and commission.(AUDIO)
Watkins offered some explanations for the need of additional funding.(AUDIO)
The County Commission currently contributes over $8.8 million dollars to the school system, with Jowers asking Director Watkins what was needed to go forward.(AUDIO)
Plans now call for the school board to present a five year plan to the County Commission, with a request for Director Watkins to meet with the County Budget Committee to discuss funding solutions for the school.
(photos: Charles Choate – 104.9 KYTN/105.7 WQAK)
