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Schools

School Board Zeros in on Building Renovations

A public forum on the proposed Peters Township High School renovation will be held Oct. 26 at 7 p.m.

Renovation of , repair of pyrite damage to , were the main discussions at Monday’s school board meeting.

Building and Grounds Committee Chair Lori Cuervo announced that a committee meeting will be held Nov. 1 to discuss responses from residents on whether to place a referendum question on the ballots to raise millage for the high school renovation.

The board conducted a survey through its “Perspectives” newsletter and online to gauge the public’s opinion about increasing taxes to pay for the high school renovation, which is under consideration.

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If the public asks for a ballot question, it will be placed on the primary election ballots in May 2012. The deadline has passed to have the question ready for the Nov. 8 general election.

Cuervo also announced that a public forum on the proposed high school renovation will be held Oct. 26 at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium.

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Cuervo said it is hoped that those interested in learning about the project would attend the meeting.

In addressing the continuing pyrite problems at McMurray Elementary, the board voted to advertise for bids to repair the problem.

It also voted to have HHSDR Architects/Engineers prepare specifications and design services for the remediation project. Cost is estimated at $121,800.  

It also approved a contract with Elliott Engineering to conduct another survey of the site to determine any structural changes that have taken place in the building since last year. Cost of the survey will be $150 an hour.

Tests were conducted last winter to determine the extent of the damage.

Superintendent Nina Zetty said the testing will likely take place in December over a two-day period.

The board is expected to award the contract for repairs sometime after January, and work will commence at the close of the school year. Zetty said it’s possible that the repair work could push back the start of classes next fall until after Labor Day.

Cost of the repairs is expected to be covered as part of the $5 million bond issue, which was created to begin the athletic field improvements for .

In another construction-related matter, the board approved a contract with RAME Construction for a red metal roof for the concession stand/restrooms at Pleasant Valley Elementary. Cost will be $22,500, which is covered by the bond issue.

The board will hold its first Budget Committee meeting Oct. 24 at 6:30 p.m.

The early planning process was brought on by cutbacks in state funding experienced this year, and to facilitate the new budget process under Act 1 of the state Department of Education code.

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