Miss-Delectable

VSDB remake clears hurdle


The General Assembly approved most of Gov. Mark Warner's legislative amendments Wednesday, including a change that reopens the door for the Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind to remain in Staunton.

Last week, Del. Chris Saxman, R-Staunton, asked Warner to allow the state to consider Staunton as a site for consolidation with the Hampton school and to allow for renovations, additions or new construction. The governor wrote the amendment into the state budget bill.

The previous version allowed only new construction at a new site.

"I'm gratified," Saxman said. "It was unanimous in the House."

But his work is not over, Saxman said. Just because the door is open, it's not a done deal.

Saxman said he plans to meet with the advisory commission reviewing VSDB consolidation, discuss renovation costs and push for the school to stay in Staunton.

The legislation directs the Board of Education to consider public-private partnerships, not exceeding $61.5 million, but Saxman believes the school can be saved at considerably less expense.

The Board of Education has to choose a location and have a plan for the schools' consolidation by July 31.

The House of Delegates rejected two of Warner's 30 budget revisions and two of his amendments to 44 other bills, most of which drew little attention during the 47-day session, which ended Feb. 27. The Senate did not defeat any of Warner's amendments.

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