Ministerial Coalition Criticizes Heiner TV Spot

A television ad from Republican mayoral candidate Hal Heiner has drawn criticism from a group that represents many African-American churches. The Interdenominational Ministerial Coalition, or IMC, says Heiner's ad is misguided.The 30-second TV spot calls for an end to the Jefferson County Public Schools student assignment plan. In its place, Heiner suggests the district expand the magnet school program and provide incentives for teachers at low-performing schools.IMC President Reverend Frank M. Smith Jr. says Heiner's plan would re-segregate the schools. He adds that the assignment plan should stay in place, and any problems with it should be addressed by the school board."We support our school board in moving forward," he says. "A lot of tax dollars have already been expended behind the plan and implementation of the plan and we just think some simple tweaking can get the situation improved."The Heiner campaign says the community needs to take a new look at education and the ad will continue to air.