Testimony continues in South Park school hearing

July 29, 2009 2:03 PM
Ashley Rodrigue

A judge is hearing more testimony Wednesday in a case that could determine the fate of the old South Park High School building.

The Beaumont Heritage Society wants Judge Bob Wortham to issue an injunction to prevent the demolition of the building, which has been used as a middle school.

The group claims the district lied to voters who approved a $398 million bond issue to build and repair schools.

The Heritage Society says the building has historic significance and it says the district isn't making the best use of tax dollars by tearing it down.

The executive director of the Heritage Society testified Wednesday that the school didn't have a historic designation.

BISD Superintendent Dr. Carrol Thomas spent most of Tuesday on the stand.

He was questioned about changes in plans for the South Park building.

The attorney for the Heritage Society is trying to prove that the school district misled voters about its intentions.

The attorney for BISD says the district was clear that it planned to tear down South Park.

Beaumont Chamber of Commerce President Jim Rich and engineer Sina Nejad testified Wednesday.

The hearing will end at 2:45 p.m. Wednesday to allow the judge to attend a funeral. It'll resume Thursday.

6 News reporter Ashley Rodrigue is covering the hearing.

Stay with KFDM News and kfdm.com for the latest information.


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