CDC to debate Northside link
By BRENDA SOMMER bsommer@leader-news.com

Directors of the City Development Corporation of El Campo may decide Monday whether to have their agency's head also be interim chief of the Northside Education Center.

In August, Northside board President Gordon Sorrell asked the CDC board to let Executive Director Chandra Spenrath take calls and handle business after Northside Executive Director Irene Barr stepped down Sept. 1.

The distance-learning center, opened on the refurbished grounds of the original El Campo High School at 707 Fahrenthold, is home to several adult education programs.

The CDC gives money to the center to help workers land good jobs, hone their office and customer service skills, and brush up on computer programs.

Spenrath, board attorney Ronny Collins and a committee of Spenrath and two board members have all been working to come up with a plan that would allow her to handle the duties.

The board will also review and consider Northside Education Center's request for funding Monday. The CDC annually grants the center $30,000 for workforce development.

During Monday's meeting, the board will also:

• Review and consider the Chamber's request for assistance with board room renovations. Both organizations use the room in the space they share at the corner of Washington and Jackson streets;

• Review and consider renewal of flood insurance for Silver Streak Bass Company;

• Hold a closed executive session to discuss and deliberate economic development negotiations and consult with board attorney Ronny Collins. If any action is taken as a result of the closed session, it will occur in open session.