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Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Howard County School Board Torn By Dissent

Howard County's school board had ended its public hearing on a new elementary in Elkridge and moved onto discussing the matter — a seemingly routine meeting for the group that governs one of the nation's best school systems.

But when some area residents sought to ask more questions about the school's proposed site, they were told to wait until the meeting ended — and board member Allen Dyer wasn't satisfied. He went into the audience and sat down with the residents three times, returning to his seat with a list of questions that he addressed to the board.

That episode last week was the latest confrontation in a running battle between Dyer and other members of the board. His actions, which include lawsuits against the board, have led colleagues to take the unusual step of seeking to remove him.

    As the infighting continues, public opinion appears split. Some in the county view Dyer, who was elected to the board, as a champion of the public's interests, while others wonder whether the controversy might harm the school system's image.

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