Wake Commissioners, School Board Discuss Property Ownership

Wake County commissioners have talked about taking over ownership from the school board. An estimated 60 new schools will be built in Wake County by 2020. County commissioners said they want the assets on their books for bond purposes and they say they want to get most out of sharing land with the local towns and cities.

"I think there's a feeling that it can be done better. It can be a better partnership," county commissioner Joe Bryan said. "The county may be in a better position to do this in a more efficient manner."

However, the school board is indicating that it does not want to give up control of buying and developing school property.

"There are ramifications for both boards that need to be addressed first, [along with] fears and consideration," school board chairwoman Susan Parry said.

The price to accomodate growth is getting expensive for the school system. Last year, the bond issue covered $550 million in future plans. The school system said rising construction costs and temporary classrooms require $47 million more in funds.

Both sides are scheduled to meet again in December.