I support the Southern Pines Land & Housing Trust's acquisition of the 17-acre Southern Pines Primary School site and their plan to develop the West Southern Pines Center for African American History, Cultural Arts & Business (www.splandandhousingtrust.org). The consideration being offered for the school includes cash and long-term direct educational benefits for Moore County Schools, including opportunities for student enrichment and recruitment incentives for teacher diversity. This is far more than the "fair value" required by the North Carolina State Constitution. The WSP Center will provide significant cultural, educational, and economic benefits to all of Southern Pines and to Moore County as a new tourist and cultural destination.
I strongly urge the Board to make a difference by accepting the Land Trust's offer to Purchase SPPS.
