( KNZA )-Citing budget concerns, the Hiawatha School Board has decided against giving their approval at this time to a grant application for the hiring of a school resource officer.
Police Chief John Defore appeared before the board Monday evening seeking approval to apply for a grant through the U.S. Bureau of Justice that would fund 75 percent of the wages and benefits of the officer for three years. Defore said the city would pay the remaining 25 percent, with no cost to the school district. The city commission gave their approval last week.
Defore said the grant requires that the position be maintained for a fourth year, and the $47,000 cost during the fourth year would be split between the city and school district.
Board members voiced concerns about making a commitment when they don’t know what the district’s financial picture will look like in the future. In addition, they said if the money was available they would prefer it go toward the hiring of a teacher.
Defore said the grant is available each year, and Board President Dave Thompson said the board will look at it again in another year.
In the meantime, Defore says he would like to re-establishment a DARE program at the elementary and middle schools and will be coming back before the board at a future meeting for their approval.
© Many Signals Communications
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Whiting woman sentenced in theft of fire dept. funds
Seneca man injured in car-deer accident
One injured in Jeff Co collision
Walnut Township gains new Treasurer
Two officers recognized at city commission meeting
KSDE general counsel recommends denial of land transfer petition
U.S. 73, U.S. 36 chip seal project to begin Monday
Future of Nemaha Co healthcare sales tax up in air
Hiawatha PD: Airsoft guns off limits inside city
K-9 resurface to start Monday; delays expected
HCF Match Day event raises more than $230K
Wi-Fi, code locks, among VF City Park improvements
Gov announces special session of KS Legislature
Plans underway for " No Summer Hunger" program
HCC hires new Vice President for Academic Affairs
Atchison Co Fair fundraiser set for Saturday
Commission approves purchase of new patrol vehicle
Shefferd files for re-election to city commission
LATEST STORIES
NVCH named Top 20 Critical Access Hospital
U.S. 73, U.S. 36 chip seal project to begin Monday
KSDE general counsel recommends denial of land transfer petition
Candidate files for Jackson Co Commission seat
Commission approves purchase of new patrol vehicle
Future of Nemaha Co healthcare sales tax up in air
Seneca man injured in car-deer accident
Shefferd files for re-election to city commission