THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, April 14, 1996 TAG: 9604130142
SECTION: VIRGINIA BEACH BEACON PAGE: 07 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Medium: 75 lines
Grand jury report went too far to disparage board members
Growing up in Virginia Beach, I've learned from my grandparents' and parents' examples the importance of giving back to the community by volunteering time for local civic and charitable organizations. Along with my brothers and sister, we've been involved with numerous projects over the years. The recent Grand Jury decision in the School Board case, however, is like a cold shower to those like us who have so willingly participated in the past in civic activities.
Sure there were mistakes made and the School Board bears some responsibility, but how in the world are we to expect lay persons who spend a few days a month to delve into every financial detail of the school system? Doesn't this board, have to depend on the profession staff to provide them with accurate figures? If the staff fails in this, as they did in this case, they are rightly out the door. But the board? This is a policy and guidance body, not a hands on management group, and the individuals on the Grand Jury especially should understand this.
Malfeasance in office? No Way! There was never any intent by the board to overspend. Their only intent was to do the best they could with the information they received. That's all you can ask of any lay board members. For the Grand Jury to disparage these individuals in this matter is obscene!
Blame Dr. Faucette? Absolutely. Blame Mr. Smith? No question. Blame the board members voting to reinstate Mr. Smith? Yes, certainly for that. But to blame lay board members, earning a pittance for the hours they put in, for intentionally overspending the budget is rediculous.
I'm very proud of my brother Joe Taylor's involvement with the school system over the years, from volunteer time with Adopt-A-School and Career Development, to his tenure on the School Board. I know of the countless hours he has dedicated. The Grand Jury is as ``reckless'' with their broad brush approach as they believe the School Board to be, if they believe for one second that Joe Taylor is anything but an outstanding role model for our children. How could it be any less with the role models we shared growing up?
Community service is a virture we're trying hard to instill in young people today. Let's not dash this effort with threats to these public servants of ``resign or we'll indict.'' The citizens of Virginia Beach still have the ultimate control at the ballot box through elections or recalls. That's the proper place for this decision to be made, not in the court room.
Robert N. Taylor
Virginia Beach
City inconsistent on drunk driver policy
If Virginia Beach is going to allow the Brew-Thru drive-up convenience store to open at the Oceanfront I hope they follow the plan for Shore Drive and remove all the trees in the resort area. We wouldn't want any trees to jump out and hit any of the drunk drivers the store will be serving!
D.E. Dabbs
Virginia Beach
Musical students deserve our applause
A very enjoyable evening was spent at Ocean Lakes High School on March 16, when the music teachers of Virginia Beach Public Schools presented the All-City Colonial and Dominion Chorus' groups of young elementary school children.
To all who were responsible ``an orchid to you.'' The young people, who made up both groups, have every right to be proud of their appearance, concentration that was evident. Parents and others should also be applauded for attending and showing their support.
Keep up the good work and may the Fine Arts program prove that it does pay.
E. McAllister
Virginia Beach by CNB