As the community tries to improve literacy and low FCAT scores, Escambia County is contemplating cutting its library funding 25% – about $800K to $900K. Meanwhile, the City of Pensacola is staying firm on its commitment to the libraries.
The county cuts may mean that branches will close two days a week. No new books, computers or other equipment will be purchased.
We’re also hearing the county’s cuts to public health will result in fewer nurses in county schools. Like Hall in Santa Rosa County, ECSO is saying it will cut funding of school resource officers.
What are the priorities of Escambia County? What is the basis for their decisions? Have any surveys or polls be done of the public?