Laurel to Rowan County Commissioners, who have finally decided to offer some sort of solace to residents of Dukeville, a community stricken by coal ash woes. For far too long residents of the rural community in Rowan have fought for help without hearing much from their county elected leaders. When the commissioners’ agenda was released this week, it showed commissioners were considering extending water lines to Dukeville regardless of whether the NC General Assembly compelled Duke Energy to pay for the project. Thankfully, it now appears that commissioners won’t have to pay the entire cost of construction, perhaps even none. The announcement from Rowan County came conveniently as legislators were considering a bill that requires Duke to pay for water lines and ultimately passed. Regardless, they deserve credit for committing to extend water lines. It’s likely that Dukeville will see relief before other coal ash communities.

Dart to the unusual decision making process used by the Rowan-Salisbury School Board. More than two years after a contentious mediation process over capital needs, The Rowan-Salisbury School Board has essentially pressed pause on its discussions for a consolidated western elementary school. It was even suggested during mediation talks that an increase in taxes might be necessary because of the immediacy and amount of capital needs. Now, two years later, the school board is undecided on a site at the corner of N.C. 801 and Godbey Road. Heavy traffic and the proximity of Southern Power are concerns. They’re valid concerns, but come later than some might expect. Why hadn’t the school board taken note of the concerns before selecting a site, which it’s now under contract to purchase? It’s important that the school board examine every potential concern, but due diligence usually comes before a contract to purchase.