School proposal hearing Monday

A proposal to consolidate the Flathead County Superintendent of Schools Office with the Treasurer’s Office and eliminate the elected position of superintendent of schools will be considered at a public hearing at 10:15 a.m. Monday at the county commissioners’ chambers in Kalispell.

If there is to be a change, the county must make a decision about eliminating the elected office at least seven days before election filing begins Jan. 14.

Commissioner Joe Brenneman proposed the consolidation plan based on a 1994 state report that recommended eliminating the elected position of superintendent of schools.

He maintains that by consolidating and contracting for some services, the county can save at least $570,000 over four years.

Proponents of the elected office maintain the office is vital for the local governance of education.

Flathead County has 23 school districts, the most of any Montana county.