The Concerned Citizens of Lincoln County met at the library May 21, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. President Al Bean opened the meeting. Vice-president, Linda Burns welcomed members and guests and then introduced our guest speaker, Dr. Randall Edmunds, Superintendent of Lincoln County Public Schools.

Dr. Edmunds distributed a large pamphlet concerning the public school education and the structure of the school system. This included power and duties of the school board members. There are 315 employees including full and part time. There are 1323 pupils in the Lincoln schools.

Dr. Edmunds discussed the revenue and expenditures from 2008 - 2009 school year. In five years, the tax digest has doubled. The revenue from the state, which is required by law to help fund public education, has dropped considerably the past year, as has the federal government. Both state and federal send workers to check on the business of the schools.

Dr. Edmunds suggested the citizens talk to the state congressman on the impact fees which have not been given by the federal government. Lincoln County will get about $400,000 from the stimulus program for the next two years. Dr. Edmunds stated the school system has cut eight positions for the year 2009 - 2010, and they might have to cut more as they are working on the next years budget. On April 15 they are required by law to either renew the contracts of the teachers or let them go. The state doesn't close their budget until May 15. He feels the law should be changed so both state and schools has the same date.

Dr. Edmunds discussed the new building. He stated it should not cost much more to operate than the old high school. It's possible the middle school would move into the old high school but it would have to be renovated. In building the new school, he felt it helped the economy in Lincoln County with more jobs and more business to Lincolnton.

He stated the special election held March 7, 2007 was approved by 6.9% of the voters. In discussing the property tax assessment, he felt if the assessments goes down, the mileage rate might increase.

The school accepts contributions and gifts for retiring employees. He also discussed with the members about school tax relief for senior citizens which would have to be approved by the school board. He also talked about tenure for teachers. After they have taught three years, they can apply for tenure.

The CCLC thanked Dr. Edmunds for taking the time from his very busy schedule to inform us about the business of the school.

Members discussed asking Lee Anderson, state congressman, to our meeting as a guest speaker. Motion made and approved.

Discussion of an incident that involved using 911 in a dire emergency. Motion was made to approach the county commissioners about the incident and no tower in the north end of the county. Also to discuss the contract with Verizon and Wilkes Telephone Company.

Meeting approved. If you missed this meeting you missed a very informative and interesting meeting. In the special election of March 2, 2007 on the school bond issue, 838 voted out of 5448 registered voters at that time in Lincoln County. Our next meeting will be held June 18. Our guest speaker will be announced at a later date.