PIERRE, S.D.(HubCityRadio)- On Tuesday, the Joint Committee on Appropriations heard testimony on HB1262.  The bill make an appropriation for the construction of a non-residential, school-based, therapeutic services facility in Brown County and to declare an emergency.

Prime sponsor of the bill was Representative Lana Greenfield of Doland.

Greenfield talks about how often the city of Aberdeen has made request for funding.

Aberdeen Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Becky Guffin reiterates her support for the bill.

Guffin told the committee that Aberdeen is ready for this to get this started.

The facility will come from the Children’s Home Society who have locations in Sioux Falls & Rapid City.  Mike Groher, Business Development Officer, talks about the feasibility study Aberdeen has done.

District 3 Representative Al Novstrup spoke about the bill is in conjunction with HB1017 which has now passed the South Dakota House unanimously.

Two superintendents from rural communities who also testified in favor when heard in the House Education Committee spoke in front of this committee.  They both talked about the benefits of having this in Aberdeen.

Webster School Superintendent Jim Block:

Groton School Superintendent Joe Schwan:

There was no opposition to the bill.  However due to time constraints, there was no vote made by the committee.  On Wednesday the committee passed the bill on a 14-2 vote.