Edwards Elementary May Get Transformation
    by Paula Bard, Staff Writer ~~ Monahans News, August 31, 2009

The future of Edwards Elementary School was discussed at the Aug.  25 meeting of Monahans City Council.

According to Economic Development Consultant Morse Haynes, Odessa College Nursing School and Headstart have both voiced interest in relocating to the school.  The nursing school in Monahans needs more classroom space and may consider putting in an RN program.  Edwards would offer a more favorable location for Headstart.  The City would accept the upkeep of the playground area and perhaps the gym for public use.  The facility will need an automatic watering system.

Council said some parts of the school would need demolition, but MWP-ISD could save money by not paying for demolition of the entire facility.

Council members approved the closing of East Second St. between Allen St. and Main St. on Saturday, Sept. 5, between the hours of 11a.m. and 4 p.m. for the grand opening of Wounded Wolf Defense and Gym located at 200 N. Main (in the old Corner Drug building.)  Anthony Adamson, owner of the new business, said he plans to have sponsors with booths set up during those hours and feels it would be a hazard to have people crossing the street for the events.  Adamson said the public is invited for free food, drinks and music during the grand opening.

Council voted to leave the tax rate as is at .033040 per $100 of valuation of property.  City Manager announced sales taxes have really taken a nosedive for the last several months, and he expects more of the same next month.  According to Mills, sales taxes are down 34 percent from this same time last year.

Council tabled the receipt of Monahans Economic Development annual report and the organization's budget for the coming year.

The next meeting of the Council is scheduled at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8, in the boardroom at city hall.

Keyed by Marsha Sawyer, Senior 2010