Montgomery Public Schools and county commissioners clashed over a proposal to reallocate part of a county 1¢ sales tax. Pamela Watkins, speaking for the district, told the commission the tax brings about $33,000,000 a year to the schools and that a 10% reduction would mean an estimated $4'$4.5 million loss and the elimination of roughly 50 to 60 positions.

"We cannot build a stronger economy by weakening our public schools," Watkins said, urging commissioners to preserve the district's revenue stream and the services it supports.

Vice Chairman Carmen Moore Ziegler, who framed the fiscal dilemma at length, acknowledged the personal and community stakes of funding choices but said county leaders must weigh competing obligations including public safety and county projects. Ziegler described the situation as a "double-edged sword," saying she did not want to cut school funding but also expressed concern about maintaining essential county services and facilities.

Commissioners discussed the tax'which was enacted in 2004 as a general county fund'and possible approaches to preserve services while supporting schools. Ziegler told the commission she consulted local leaders and proposed using a portion of the tax, with the stated goal of growing county revenues and sharing proceeds over time.

Several commissioners emphasized their ongoing commitment to education. Commissioner Costanza said the commission must find where tax dollars are most needed rather than reflexively cutting or expanding spending, and Commissioner Sankey and others urged collaboration among the county, city and school district to avoid damaging either public education or public safety.

The discussion did not produce a final vote on changing the law or allocation during the meeting. Commissioners said they would continue talks, seek more details on budget impacts, and pursue options that would not abruptly reduce classroom staffing or otherwise destabilize the school district.

What happens next: commissioners said the matter would return for further consideration; no formal change to the allocation was adopted at the meeting.