Washington County commissioners unanimously approve submitting loan application for proposed Pre-K–12 school

The Washington County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously on April 3 to submit a Local Government Commission (LGC) loan application for a proposed consolidated Pre-K–12 school, despite a wave of public comment urging caution about tax increases and curriculum priorities.

County Manager and County Attorney Curtis Potter told the board he had identified a late $1.5 million reduction in project costs, which would lower the amount the county needs to borrow to about $20,181,000. Potter said the board would still retain the option not to close on financing and that the "point of no return" would be the May 1 meeting.

Commissioner Ann C. Keyes moved to direct staff to submit the LGC application due April 4, 2023; Commissioner Tracey A. Johnson seconded and the motion carried unanimously. "I have been on this Board for a long time and know that Washington County needs a new school," Johnson said, urging citizens to support efforts to secure additional funds.

The decision followed a public forum in which several residents urged the board either to approve the application or to reject tax increases. Wesley Stokes urged approval that evening and suggested commissioners "consider all options—make the four-cent increase your option." By contrast, Charlotte Maxwell, a former teacher, opposed a tax increase and argued that discipline and curriculum — not facilities alone — will drive student outcomes. Doug Maxwell accused the school board of changing its explanation for consolidation and warned that higher taxes would harm retired residents.

Commissioner John C. Spruill told the meeting that while the county recently received roughly $50 million in funds toward the school project, Washington County remains about $20 million short and needs residents to contact representatives to request additional support.

The agenda packet and discussion did not include a finalized construction contract or a vote to close financing; the action taken was authorization to submit the LGC loan application. Potter said the board may decline to proceed before closing, and any final borrowing would be subject to later board approval and LGC review.

Next steps: staff will submit the LGC application by April 4, and the board will revisit the question at the May 1 meeting, when officials said a final decision to close financing would be required if they choose to proceed.