Solution to school funding on county agenda, maybe Savannah's

Jan. 12– An end to the stalemate between Hardin County and the city of Savannah regarding a $7 million shortage for local education may be in sight.

County Mayor Kevin Davis said he will present a plan Thursday at the county commission’s study session that provides the funds needed to complete a 550-student school now under construction near Walmart in Savannah.

For months, county officials have sought to persuade the Savannah City Commission to pick up the tab for the remainder of the county project.

Davis this afternoon offered few details on the plan, but said it involves two land transactions and concessions on both sides.

"It’s going to benefit all the citizens of Hardin County," he said.

The 6:30 p.m. planning meeting at the county courthouse in Savannah is open to the public. The Hardin County Commission meets again next Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and could vote on the proposal then at its regular monthly business session.

Savannah City Manager Garry Welch was not immediately available for comment.

Jan. 13– Welch declined to provide specifics, saying only that the plan still under development entails "significant movement in the amount of funds needed from the city."

A resolution of intent regarding the matter may or may not be considered at the city commission's monthly business meeting tomorrow night at 7, he said.