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Comptroller Visits Baltimore Co. Elementary School To Determine Needs

BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. (WJZ) -- A Baltimore County elementary school heard some encouraging words about its future funding as State Comptroller Peter Franchot assesses the need for renovation in schools throughout the state. 

Political reporter Pat Warren has more on the comptroller's visit.

Maryland's 21 school districts all report needs for expansion and renovation and the Board of Public Works is answering those requests one school building at a time.

"This is a classic example of being a victim of success," said Baltimore County School Superintendent Dr. Joe A. Hairston.

Hampton Elementary School, like other schools, has simply outgrown itself, but $6 million requested from the Board of Public Works could solve its overcrowding problems. 

State Comptroller Peter Franchot who, along with the governor and treasurer, holds the purse strings on construction dollars toured Hampton Monday.

"Now I see why we need all the money," said Franchot.  "[It's] a very ambitious plan but a good one and well-spent."

Baltimore County is asking the state for a total of $78 million to spend systemwide.

"The students are doing quite well here and...it's a very attractive place to live, so people come to this area and this community because of our good schools and that's what's causing some of the overcrowdedness right now," Hairston said.

It looks like the county has made its case.

"This is a family-oriented community and it sure reflected that today," Franchot said.

Approximately $600 million in construction funds have been requested by schools statewide.

The Board of Public Works meets in Annapolis Tuesday.

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