A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS TO TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY to construct and equip A learning and technology center.
Whereas, the closing of the AGFA plant and downsizing at Ecusta has resulted in the loss of 1,942 high-paying manufacturing jobs in Transylvania County; and
Whereas, with this downsizing and closing, Transylvania County is experiencing severe economic conditions; and
Whereas, there is no distance learning training facility in Transylvania County to accommodate these displaced workers, and the nearest center is approximately one hour away; and
Whereas, the Transylvania County Board of Commissioners and the Transylvania Board of Education are proposing to construct and equip a distance learning and technology center; and
Whereas, the center will be used by displaced workers, area citizens, and the Transylvania County public school system to learn job skills and additional education opportunities that are needed for suitable employment; and
Whereas, the cost of the project is five million two hundred thousand dollars ($5,200,000) with the county and other funding sources contributing two million seven hundred thousand dollars ($2,700,000); Now, therefore,
The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:
SECTION 1.  There is appropriated from the General Fund to Transylvania County the sum of two million five hundred thousand dollars ($2,500,000) for the 2002‑2003 fiscal year to assist the County in constructing and equipping a learning and technology center.
SECTION 2.  This act becomes effective July 1, 2002.