Rowan County Commissioners have agreed to spend at least $50,000 on the county’s 250th birthday celebration, although they aren’t sure where the money will come from.
Approval came on a split vote, with Vice Chairman Gus Andrews casting the lone vote against the expenditure.
Chairman Steve Blount asked the board this week to approve spending the money out of next year’s budget. But he admitted it may be tough to find an extra $50,000.
“There will be no excess $50,000. Our commitment to education will eat up all the money we have,” said Blount.
When commissioners raised the idea of simply pledging the money and not making an official commitment, Blount said that wouldn’t work.
He explained that the steering committee preparing the celebration is working to seek grants from private foundations and needs to have the seed money. He indicated the money may also be used to in part to hire a professional to write grant applications.
Andrews, who ousted conservative Commissioner Dave Row-land, sounded very much like Rowland when he cast his first vote on a spending issue.
“I”m very uncomfortable spending $50,000 we’re not going to have,” said Andrews, adding that he is very supportive of the celebration. “It’s difficult to commit that much money and not compare it to other needs ….”
In another issue related to the 250th anniversary celebration, the board unanimously approved appointing Newton Cohen to the steering committee.
Cohen, whose term ended on the county commissioners earlier this month, has served as a member for several months.
The county will be 250 year old in April 2003.
Commissioners have talked in broad terms about events including a parade. Earlier this year Cohen indicated commissioners also hope to have a visit by the U.S. president.
For the 200th birthday, President Dwight D. Eisenhower spoke to thousands at the Catawba College football stadium.
In a separate funding issue, the board unanimously agreed to donate $5,000 to the Community Care Clinic of Rowan.
Chamberlain asked for the donation, citing the many layoffs that have left hundreds of residents without jobs or medical insurance.
The clinic provides free medical and dental services.
He urged the board to show compassion for families struggling with financial and medical problems.
Chamberlain pointed out that the clinic is not a United Way agency, and is need of support.
County Manager Tim Russell said there is money available in the current budget for the donation.
The clinic which opened in 1996 has served more than 5,000 residents. It is now located at 315-G Mocksville Ave.
The medical clinic is open daily.
Services are provided to those without any insurance, government or private.
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