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NEWS
Surrounding counties seek SBA money for school projects
CHARLESTON - The Cabell County Board of Education isn't the only county looking for School Building Authority money to complete projects.
Wayne County, which presented its proposal Tuesday afternoon to the SBA board, is asking for $10.7 million to build a new Fort Gay Elementary School. The current school, said Assistant Superintendent Jerry Workman during his presentation, is not only old, but spread out more like a campus.
The school is built on four acres, has two levels, and the handicapped ramp is 100 yards long and winds up and down hill. The school also has five different access points and is located within a residential neighborhood, causing traffic problems every morning and afternoon.
But some on the SBA board questioned the proposal because it didn't list any local funds coming from the school board. Tom Lange and Connie Perry told Wayne County superintendent Gary Adkins that with all the needs, the board should try to pass a bond that would take care of a number of schools at one time, in addition to SBA money.
"You present to the citizens what you presented here to us, and you'll get support," added SBA board member Louis Spatafore.
Putnam County is requesting $21.7 million for the construction and addition of a new Winfield Middle School. The grant would be in conjunction with a local bond issue of more than $55 million.
In addition to Cabell County asking for $21.5 million, there are other counties seeking significant grants to build new schools.
Berkeley County is asking for $25 million for a new high school, contingent upon passing a local bond.
Fayette County is requesting $25 million for a new high school, contingent upon passing a local bond.
Marshall County is asking for $24.9 million for a new middle and high school campus.
Decisions are expected to be made April 20.
