Residents and educators press Union County commissioners to do more for teachers
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Summary
Multiple residents, including teachers and a town councilman, urged the Union County Board of Commissioners to prioritize teacher supplements, improve responsiveness to educators and advocate for a state budget that would fund local schools.
Several residents and educators used the Dec. 8 public‑comment period to press the Union County Board of Commissioners to take stronger action on education funding and to respond more respectfully to teachers.
Gina Guerrero, an Indian Trail resident who identified herself as a parent and teacher, told the board she was disappointed by the Nov. 17 meeting and asked commissioners to “stand with our teachers” and to advocate in Raleigh for a state budget so local schools can access needed funding.
Todd Barber, an Indian Trail councilman speaking for himself, thanked the board for prior partnerships on infrastructure projects and praised county support for public safety and sewer expansion that supports business growth.
Amy Brantley, who said she works for Union County Public Schools, criticized the board’s actions at the Nov. 17 meeting and raised concerns about transparency around a $2,000 teacher stipend. She said some board members had ‘‘chuckled and snickered’’ while teachers spoke and asked what the board has done to advocate for teachers at the state level while the state budget remains unsettled.
Jen Sanders of Waxhaw reiterated support for educators and said the board needs ‘‘real solutions, real respect, and real commitment’’ for schools; she also criticized divisive rhetoric by a named individual and warned of consequences when board decisions become more contentious.
In response, Commissioners acknowledged the comments. A commissioner apologetically pledged to improve advocacy and said he will propose changes during upcoming budget planning. Commissioner Merrill summarized the board’s prior interactions with the Board of Education, explained timing around budget and stipend distribution and said the county had sent a letter requesting the supplement increase.
The board did not take immediate formal action during the meeting but several commissioners signaled they would address the concerns during budget discussions and outreach to state leaders.