Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot was in Frederick Thursday. He toured the new Lincoln Elementary School, which was one of Frederick County's top projects in their capital improvement plan. Franchot said next week the Board of Public Works will be gathering to hear from officials around the state who need more school funding and reimbursements for projects that have already been completed. "I'm up here, just to kick the tires, and see what the highest priority is in Frederick for funding. I understand the project has been completed, but they're asking to be reimbursed and I'm going to take a look at it and report back to the Governor and the Treasurer," said Franchot.

"Lincoln Elementary School was funded with a combination of county and state funds," said Ray Barnes, Executive Director of Facilities for FCPS. The total cost with design, construction and equipment was $29.4 million. "And out of that amount $12 million came from the state," continued Barnes.

Lincoln Elementary is the first local school building to receive the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver certification. The school's principal, Ann Reever, said the building means everything to students and staff. "Our kids are so proud of their school," she said.

It's the first renovated school facility with a geothermal HVAC system. It has a 659 student seating capacity. Total square footage of the building is 98,463.

Barnes said several other schools are still on tap for renovations. "They include Frederick High and the construction of the new North Frederick Elementary School."