Local

The Washington County School District has approved the first reading of its 2011-12 budget, and there is some good news during what are otherwise tough economic times.
   The overall budget is $17 million, with $13 million being in the general fund.
   Some school districts have had to make cuts, but the Washington County district has been able to create savings to provide a 1-percent pay increase for employees, according to Superintendent of Washington County Schools Robin Cochran.

Almost two years to the day after the new Springfield Northwest Bypass was officially let for bidding and examination by potential contractors, the road was opened with a small ceremony Monday morning.
The new road took 210 working days to complete, and came at a cost of $12,375,230.76. It covers a stretch of 3.48 miles and connects the existing US 150 near St. Catharine College to KY 555 on the east end of Springfield.

The Springfield Business & Professional Women’s Club will host its 2011 Spring Wine-Tasting to be held Saturday, May 21, on the grounds of  the historic Hugh McElroy Home located at  110 College Street, the same location as last year’s event.