Community Forum Well Attended
A large crowd attended the Cheyenne County Community Builders Forum on Monday evening, February 8th. The St. Francis High School Auditorium was packed with community members interested in learning more about the effects of state funding cuts on the St. Francis community.
The forum was moderated by Tom Keller, long time St. Francis resident and chairman of the Community Builders. Tom began the program by introducing all who would make presentations during the evening and explaining how the evening's events would take place. Tom gave a PowerPoint presentation on "Effects of School Funding Cuts on USD 297."
Following Tom's presentation, was a presentation by Rob Schiltz, superintendent of St. Francis Community Schools. Rob discussed how school funding is calculated and how the cuts in school funding are affecting the school budget. Rob also spoke about the possible future cuts that have been proposed. The USD 297 school budget has been cut twice already this school year. St. Francis will now receive $240, 980 less than originally promised and another round of cuts in the near future could bring the total to $412,700. Cuts proposed through 2012 may exceed $700,000.
Dr. Mary Beth Miller spoke on behalf of the Good Samaritan Village and Les Lacy on behalf of the Cheyenne County Hospital. Both facilities are affected by cuts in Medicare and Medicaid payments and provide essential services to Cheyenne County residents.
County Commissioner Dale Patton explained how Cheyenne County is funded and how the proposed cuts in their funding may result in decreased services.
There was a question and answer period after the presentations. All presenters were very concerned about the effect of the cuts (and proposed future cuts) and how they will affect Cheyenne County residents. Whether you are a student, an employee, or in need of medical services, all will be affected by the reduction in state funding.
Everyone was also encouraged to attend the Town Hall meeting with Representative John Faber and Senator Ostmeyer in Bird City on Saturday, February 13th, to make your position known. The meeting is at the Legion Hall from 8-9 AM.
Click on the photo to view more photos. (All photos courtesy of Brenda Day.)
