[[Jon Schmaltz, Chairman of the Board of the Valpo Chamber - Chamber Photo Provided]

The Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors says it's time to review the selection process for Valpo's appointed school board and consider alternatives, which might include a "hybrid" board with both elected and appointed members.  During a news conference at the Valparaiso Chamber office today, Valparaiso Chamber Board Chair Jon Schmaltz said the board took a position because, "In short, it's a business issue," noting that "it's an issue that many of our 700 members recognize as a business issue. It's one that affects the quality of life in Valparaiso and Center Township."  A new state law requires school boards with a majority of appointed members to have their budgets reviewed and approved by the county council. After a change taking effect soon in East Chicago, Valpo will be the only appointed school board in the Region and reportedly one of only about a dozen around the state.

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