Kentucky’s Budget Woes Affect School Construction Statewide

SAN RAFAEL, Calif.-Preliminary construction designs for the renovation of Middlesboro Middle School in Kentucky are complete, but it does not look likely that the state Legislature will pass a budget this fiscal year to see that the district receives funding.

Design at the middle school calls for the conversion of the 1970’s open design into individual classrooms and the addition of glass throughout the facility. Also, HVAC systems will be replaced and other systems will be brought up to date with state codes and standards. A new sprinkler system would more than likely be placed in the school.

Middlesboro Independent Schools is not unique in the state of Kentucky; other school districts need to sell bonds to foot construction costs, such as Christian County Schools and Carter County Schools. They too are affected by the Legislative Assembly’s inability to pass a spending plan, as no school district in Kentucky can sell bonds if the General Assembly does not reach a consensus on a budget.

On the final day of the General Assembly, April 13, the Senate and House adjourned without agreeing on the state’s biennial spending plan. Gov. Ernie Fletcher’s (R) press secretary said that the House and Senate have to reach an agreement before the governor will call a special session.

School districts across the state cannot accrue debt without a state budget in place. As of press time, it is expected to be at least eight months before there is any further activity. The next scheduled session of the General Assembly convenes in January 2005.