I whole-heartedly believe we need a new middle school and raising taxes is the only way to do it. I know many many of have put so much of their own time and energy to make this new middle school a reality. Although I feel torn, I do not think there is an option besides a yes vote because it will set things back and we can in not waste anymore time when it comes to Gates. The unfortunate part of this project to me and many others as that it was touted as a new middle school project. In reality the building committee has presented a new middle school/performing arts/high school renovation project. We didnt sign up for that, there are bigger priorities relative to our town buildings right now. 11.6 million for a PAC and 1.3 million for movement arts/public speaking space work out to almost 25% of the cost of this project and ineligible for reimbursement. Everyone can say that its peanuts and doesnt add up to much relative to overall cost. However, that amount could almost fund the public safety complex or fund a new senior center which is partially condemed or help make renovations to the 3 elementary schools in dire need of repairs. While our current high school does not rival many of the new ones in surrounding towns because we did ours early in the game our turn for this will come again. Its not right that we are ripping apart recently renovated space. I was 100% on board for a new middle school or renovation of Gates, whatever was decided by the committee. What is leaving a bad taste in my mouth are the forced extras that while not arguing are nice to have, would not be considered a priority in my book given the state of our other buildings. This override is going to be hard enough to pass and getting another one to go through to cover anything else will be near impossible. I really hope the building committee is being completely forthcoming in their stance that this is our only option and shot at reimbursement because I will vote yes as its whats best for the middle school kids.
Posted on: Tue, 06 Jan 2015 01:03:59 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015