STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT CHALLENGED - Construction Company Says Stewart Overstepped

(01/18/2003)
A Kanawha judge has blocked the state Department of Education from re-bidding a contract for a $30 million high school in Lincoln County. State school officials must now provide evidence that favoritism tainted the bid process.

The injunction was sought by Agsten Construction, who claim State School Superintendent David Stewart exceeded his authority when he canceled a one-and-a-quarter million-dollar contract awarded to the construction company.

The lawsuit seeks to reinstate the companies contract.

A hearing is being held on January 23rd, where Stewart must come up with reasons for his decision.

The Lincoln County school is the most expensive school ever built in the state, part of a consolidation plan.