(Photo: WBOC)SALISBURY, Md.- Hundreds of people turned out for a public hearing Tuesday night on Wicomico County's proposed budget. One of the major issues drawing in the crowds was education.
"I think the turnout is very indicative of what should be going on," said Marion Carrigg of Salisbury.
The budget has not yet been finalized and many are hoping the county's public schools will get more funding.
County Council members said they are taking all those public voices very seriously. Many people who spoke with WBOC said they are hoping the council is listening to the public's concerns.
"Hopefully the council will be influenced by so many people being there and I also hope that they will look at education as being one of the most important things," noted Marietta Robbins.
The council met again Wednesday to hash out some last minute budget details and it seems the concerns of the public are being taken into account.
"We consider it very heavily," explained Councilman John Hall. "They are an important part of the community and they've got a lot of impact on our youth and our children and we look forward to working with them in the future also."
Hours after the public hearing, it was back to business for the council, this time with a renewed outlook.
"At this juncture, last night's impact and conversation and statements that were made is having us look at things a little differently and deliberate a bit more on the needs of this county for the children," said Councilwoman Sheree Sample-Hughes.
The council said that as a direct result of Tuesday night's meeting, it will be looking into earmarking extra money for school supplies in the county.
The budget must be voted on and approved by June 15.
