A “Disposal of School Property” Response

[marklingm]

Bill and Grace,

As stated above and in an effort to clarify the same, the properties are being used for the specific purpose of transition for Phase III. A board resolution was passed confirming the same.

You both ask a good question with respect to cost, as does Rhonda. The Administration shares that the cost of keeping the properties (even when vacant) until the end of Phase III is less than the cost of renting/leasing space to educate children during the Phase III process – assuming vacant space would even be available during the Phase III transition process.

Matt

[Grace O'Malley]

Thank you, Matt. I also appreciate your willingness to answer questions and take the heat when no one else seems willing to come here and do the same.

I think we have a right to ask pointed questions and to get a response. Though it may sometimes appear that I am "anti-Lakewood schools," I would point out that my children received an excellent education and I was very pleased with both the school system and every one of their teachers (well, maybe there WAS one that was so-so ). I've always voted for the levies. While I am a bit perturbed about the lack of effort to secure the stimulus monies, in the end, a vote against the levy would hurt the current students, which I am not willing to do.

That said, I think there is a refreshing amount of interest in the actions (or inaction) of the school board and I suspect that they will be held to the fire from this point on.

[Bill Trentel]

Mr. Markling I understand the possible use of these buildings to complete Phase III. I was just pointing out that MOST of the public doesn't know anything about Phase whatever and only see these empty buildings as an example of waste. I do think you will have to address this perception when you pitch the upcoming levy.
As you know I'm in communications and I find that probably the biggest error people have in communicating their messages wether it's a product, service, whatever is that they don't step back and look at it from the perspective of the average consumer. Sometimes your to close, take a step back.

Bill