SWP Reviews Winter Weather Damages

By Mark Spelbring

Sentinel Reporter

The Southwest Parke School Board members met January 11, first convened as the Board of Finance by Superintendent Dr. Phil Harrison and heard financial reports by Corporation Treasurer Leslie Shaffer.  Among the points made by Shaffer were that spending for utilities had been significantly higher than prior years, but fuel prices had come back down.  She noted they received approval of their budget from the state and the tax rate held steady.  In discussing investments, Shaffer noted they receive interest now at 4.5% on their checking account and they have not used CDs for many years. With no questions from the members, Dr. Harrison adjourned the Board of Finance meeting.

The board then convened for their reorganization meeting and to conduct other business.  New member Nathan Adams swore the oath of office administered by Treasurer Shaffer.  The election of officers was held, and results were President Darrek Davis, Vice President Max Case, and Secretary D. J. Harkrider. The board Legislative Liaison appointment will be Mark Maden.

For the bargaining team, previous member Max Case had served before along with former board member Gary Kouns.  New member Nathan Adams was asked if he would serve and after clarification of the duties, he noted that apparently he could serve even though he has a family member on the staff because Mr. Case does as well.  Dr. Harrison confirmed that they could serve on the bargaining team, but technically should abstain from votes if they have a direct financial connection.  Case and Adams agreed.

The board set their regular monthly meetings the Second Wednesday, at 7 p.m.

For the full article, see this week’s edition of the Parke County Sentinel.