School board looks to raise funds by harvesting timber
Bonnie Coblentz December 8, 2009 10:54:00 AM
Oktibbeha County school officials discussed results of the most recent safety audit and easement issues related to timberland in Monday night's meeting at West Oktibbeha Elementary School in Sturgis.
Two forestry items took the board's attention. The board followed the Mississippi Forestry Commission's recommendation and agreed to pay $25,821 to replant 237 acres of trees that had been harvested for timber. Superintendent James Covington said this amount covers the trees, the labor and their guaranteed survival.
The second item was tabled until the board could get legal advice and explore its options. The school district has timber worth about $345,000 that is ready to harvest, but they must cross private land to get to it.
"The owner said he wants $5,000 to cross his property," Covington said. "We need to find out what we can do legally to obtain an easement so we can access that property."
The board voted unanimously to table the matter to allow time for investigation.
In other business, the board was given the results of the district's regularly scheduled safety audit.
"We have some issues that need to be addressed and corrected," Covington said.
He mentioned water issues at West Elementary that have affected the school's foundation and walls. He said the district may need to bring in an engineer to evaluate the problem and suggest a solution.
The board also accepted a $23,006 Title VI grant, which is for rural and low income school districts. Covington said the money will be used to buy technology to make the high schools more interactive learning environments
Remaining board business was routine, and the school board went into closed session to discuss personnel matters. They will meet again at 6 p.m. Jan. 4 at East Oktibbeha County High School.