Erin Hill
Gadsden County News Service
Gadsden County commissioners revisited the Stevens School project during their June 2 meeting, discussing potential funding sources and possible next steps for the property.
The item follows discussion by commissioners on May 19, when the board directed county administration to identify possible funding options for the project.
Commissioner Brenda Holt, who requested the item be placed on the agenda, said the county should explore whether property or facilities could be used as part of a funding match and asked for an update on efforts to move the project forward.
Interim County Administrator Reginald James told commissioners he had spoken with individuals involved in the project and was continuing to gather information. Commissioner Ronterious Green requested that additional stakeholders be included in future discussions.
During the discussion, Interim County Attorney Louis Baptiste advised commissioners that county-owned land could not be used for the purpose being considered.
Dorothy Thomas of Shiloh Road addressed the board in support of the project, while Quincy resident Derrick Elias also spoke during the discussion.
Commissioners discussed possible funding options, including whether Tax Increment Financing funds or Community Redevelopment Agency funding could be available to assist with the project.
Holt later asked James to obtain additional information from the clerk’s office regarding potential funding sources. Baptiste noted that any proposal would ultimately require formal action by the board.
Holt then proposed directing the county attorney to seek clarification regarding Tax Increment Financing and Community Redevelopment Agency funding options. The motion failed in a 2-3 vote.
Commission Chair Eric Hinson said he would like representatives from the property appraiser’s office to participate in future discussions before the board moves forward.
Baptiste said he would also contact the Community Redevelopment Agency attorney regarding questions raised during the meeting.
Before the discussion concluded, Elias requested a copy of an audit related to the matter.
James told commissioners the project had reached a point where a political solution would likely be necessary.
No formal action was approved, and commissioners indicated the matter would likely return for additional discussion at a future meeting.
