A proposal to consolidate elementary schools in southern Albemarle County could soon be off the table once again.
The Albemarle County School Board voted Thursday night to make roofing and HVAC upgrades to Yancey Elementary School its number one priority in their five-year plan. They also voted to set aside an additional $400,000 for the purchase of land and a new septic system, for a total renovation price tag of $1.4 million.
People living in Esmont had been concerned the board might vote to stop any planned upgrades and close the school instead.
Peggy Scott of Esmont said, "And again we're discussing it. How dare you. How dare you continue, on the sweat of the backs of those students, that are at that school, continue to bring this forth."
"If we become penny wise and dollar foolish on our children's education, we'll all live to regret that very moment," said Lucian Jackson of Esmont.
The five-year plan originally included more than $5 million to expand Yancey Elementary School so they could get rid of on-site classroom trailers. That plan is now on hold because of concerns about the price.
