BC 2004 06 15 - Laserfiche WebLink

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June 15, 2004 Page 514 Noelle Scott, representing the Cabarrus Arts Council, requested that the tax rate remain the same and that funding for the Arts Council be continued. She expressed appreciation for the Board's past support. Doris Rogers, representing the Cabarrus Arts Council, asked'the Board to continue to provide funding for the Arts Council. Pat Verner, representing the Cabarrus Arts Council, supported funding for the Arts Council. She stated the school systems could not provide access to artists on their own due to cost. Glenda Thomas, representing the Cabarrus Arts Council and the Cabarrus County Education Foundation, spoke regarding the quality of life that the Arts Council and the school system help to provide in Cabarrus County. Ron Harwood encouraged the Board to work together as a team and to work with other agencies, the school boards and the cities to do what is best for the citizens of Cabarrus County. Bruce Hoff stated support of the 56-cent tax rate in order to help maintain the quality of life in Cabarrus County. Mark Murphy of Hillcrest Avenue spoke in support of funding for the long-term educational investment for the children of Cabarrus County. He asked the Board to respond positively to the School Board's request for funding. Bob Gwaltney of Concord spoke in opposition to refinancing the County's long-term fixed debt. He stated most residents would not be affected by a tax increase of three cents and suggested that special arrangements be made for senior citizens. Martin Ericson of Concord supported funding for the school system and library system and asked that the Board not spend the County's "rainy day" fund. He said he supported the 56-cent tax rate, and more if needed, to maintain the quality of life in Cabarrus County. Roy Davis of Caldwell Drive supported the assistant principal positions and the 56-cent tax rate. He referenced past campaigns to "put kids first" and opposed the refinancing of the County's debt at a variable rate. Tommy Porter of Concord stated the need for "smart growth" in Cabarrus County. He expressed concern that Cabarrus County has become a bedroom community for Mecklenburg County. Ed Phillips, President of Cabarrus County Fireman's Association, asked the Board to approve the fire tax rates requested by each of the volunteer fire departments. Danita Rickard, member of the Kannapolis City Board of Education, spoke in support of quality education and the 56-cent tax rate. Ellis Fields, Assistant Director of the Mental Health Association of the Central Carolinas, expressed appreciation for the Board's past support of mental health services and asked that funding be continued. Wilburn Livengood supported a reduction of the tax rate and stated in his opinion the additional revenue from the revaluation should provide enough funds to balance the budget. Tim Satterfield of Harrisburg expressed concern about growth and its implication on the budget. He supported a revenue neutral tax rate of 49 cents. George Culp supported funding for parks and recreation facilities and commented on the quality of life they bring to Cabarrus County citizens. George Douglas of Concord questioned how the Arena was financed and when would it be financially self sufficient. Mr. Day reported the Arena receives a contribution from the County's General Fund each year and is projected to be self sufficient in 2008 or 2009. Debbie Lewallen stated support of the 56-cent tax rate and said a reduction in educational spending would have a negative impact on economic development. She reminded the Board of its obligation to prepare for the future.