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LPS board OKs $82M in school projects

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BY MARGARET REIST / Lincoln Journal Star

Tuesday, Oct 14, 2008 - 10:54:39 pm CDT

The Lincoln Board of Education on Tuesday set in motion the next step in an unprecedented construction plan for the district, approving projects on 11 more schools.

The price tag will be about $82 million, the amount district officials have conservatively estimated will be available from a number of sources, including savings on the projects now being completed as part of the $250 million bond issue approved by voters.

Other sources include money from non-voter-approved bonds for renovations such as mold prevention and codes updates; non-voter-approved bonds for Title I schools; and income from bond investments.

Story Photo
(LJS File)

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Mark Shepard, associate superintendent of business affairs, assured the board that officials are  closely watching the bond market and there will be sufficient money available to pay for the construction projects already under way, as well as the ones approved Tuesday.

The district still has to sell $100 million in bonds but wasn’t planning to do that until the first quarter of 2009.

Shepard said he hopes that by that time the bond market will have stabilized, but officials and their financial advisors are watching it closely and will determine how long they can wait to issue the bonds to get the best return.

“We feel confident at this point the $82 million is a solid number,” he said.

The board voted 6-0 to approve the new projects as part of its 10-year facilities plan. Board member Don Mayhew was not present. 

Board members created the facilities plan when voters approved the $250 million bond issue in 2006, and they update it annually. Most of the projects approved Tuesday were part of that plan already, but not included in the projects they promised to do as part of the bond issue.

The bond issue projects included building three new schools, replacing Arnold Elementary and renovating the four older high schools.

The projects approved Tuesday include the renovation of Goodrich Middle School that will add a new science wing and eliminate the need for five portables; adding classroom space to Morley, Hill, Fredstrom and Campbell elementaries; and updating Pyrtle, Lakeview and Zeman elementaries.

 The plan also includes renovating the former Hawthorne Elementary, although the board still hasn’t decided how to use the building. It voted in 2007 to close the elementary school.

Karen Lamb, who opposed closing both Hawthorne and Dawes Middle School, on Tuesday thanked the board for deciding to keep Dawes open.

Last year, the board put off closing the middle school at least until Goodrich was renovated. Recently, though, several board members have said it appears there will be enough growth in the north part of town to keep it open indefinitely.

“It’s nice to be validated,” she said. “I’m glad a group on the facilities committee came up with the same conclusion a group of parents did last year,” she said.

She also asked the board to consider not adding too much space to Goodrich.

But board member Keith Prettyman said the planned renovation will, with the elimination of portables, add only 21 new seats.

“I do not think the argument can be made that we’re overbuilding,” he said.

Reach Margaret Reist at 473-7226 or mreist@journalstar.com.


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Umm Keep the Portables wrote on October 14, 2008 4:19 pm:
" We are in a Economic crisis, the kids have been in the portables, they can STAY in them. Renovating Hawthorne after you closed it? What is wrong with you people!!!! I'm sorry this bond was passed. The lack of respect being paid to taxpayers by LPS is revolting. I think its time for an alternative way to fund the public school system besides these costly bonds. Perhaps a 1 cent sales tax? . The schools also need to live with Less. If the desk is broken fix it, if the portable is still usable use it. Don't ask he public to pay for new, when used will work just fine. "

 Ej wrote on October 14, 2008 4:52 pm:
" How about using some common sense with some of these projects. You added on alot of space to roper grade school and did absolutaly nothing with parking and traffic flow. now it is next to impossible to get through their to pick up childeren. "

 blank check wrote on October 14, 2008 4:54 pm:
" Yes! Let's spend money. Whoop Whoop. "

 Curt wrote on October 14, 2008 5:25 pm:
" While everyone else is forced to cut back on spending, the educrats are feeling free to throw tax payers money at whatever project makes them feel like they are someone special. This is only the begining, as the socialist gain power, the people who are coerced to pay for them to play, will have less and the free spenders will spend more. Because, after all, they only do what they do because of the kids, it's all for the kids.... "

 do it wrote on October 14, 2008 6:00 pm:
" Let's do spend money. It's money LPS already has so they're not asking you for more. It's a formality that they get board approval. One of the rewards for coming in under budget is that you have the opportunity to do more than you expected. If there's a need, go for it. "

 gunnar wrote on October 14, 2008 6:27 pm:
" If the projects are absolutely necessary by all means go for it. If they are icing on the cake then the funds should be returned to the tax payers. Just because you were able to get the funds deos not mean you HAVE to spend it. You are acting just like the rest of governmet, "We have money left, so lets spend it rather than lose it". LPS needs a new school board as soon as possible, one that does not rubber stamp the requests from the over paid administration. "

 whatever wrote on October 14, 2008 6:35 pm:
" As the immigrant population continues to increase Lincoln will see needs for even more facilities. Look to Columbus to see what's coming. I would suspect that Lincoln's facility needs won't stop at the new schools already proposed and the recommended rennovations. Build now while the cost is relatively inexpensive. "

 LPS does not care wrote on October 14, 2008 6:41 pm:
" This is an insult to the taxpayers. It seems LPS is rubbing our nose in the fact that they have OUR cash to spend on their projects while all of us are suffering with this current financial climate. It is clear the LPS board does not care. Shame on you! I hope our elected officials someday have the courage to take on this shameful, selfish entity. "

 I told you all once..... wrote on October 14, 2008 7:56 pm:
" When the ignorant population of the town voted in the 100M bond issue several years ago, no one bothered to look at the details. If anyone who voted for the LPS blank check would have read the rest of the article or the proposal, (other than the DO IT FOR THE KIDS) headline, you would have seen that by LPS's own admission that if the bond issue passed, that would set forth there 10yr plan. LPS then stated that that would leave them millions short over the next 5 years. Hmmmmmmmm. "

 Of course wrote on October 14, 2008 8:14 pm:
" You can bet the $250Bond was above and beyond. So they'll give the
excuse of under budget etc. so they could spend to their hearts delight.
But they will hurry and spend all thats left and a few months later they
will be DESPERATE for another bond and higher taxes to buy the latest
computers and you name it! For a city that doesn't grow like other cities
its amazing where ALL these kids come from. If the city grew business
and industry our taxes would be less. Instead businesses keep leaving,
so what do they do, the parents leave and dump the kids at the hospitals
that the ignorant Unicameral passed laws to take care of them??? "

 to gunnar wrote on October 14, 2008 8:26 pm:
" Gunnar, when you come in under budget, do you give your extra money back to your employer or do you use it wisely for needs in the future? "

 Ujustdontgetit wrote on October 14, 2008 9:16 pm:
" How come no one understands what is going on? These building are finally being updated. Portables are not a very good place to learn in. Lincoln residents need to get a clue and think about who will be in charge of you in 20 years!!! The money that is left over is going to those schools who need it as well. Wake up and smell the coffee, you clowns! "

 proud parent wrote on October 14, 2008 9:59 pm:
" I'd like to know how many complainers have been in a Lincoln Public school this year? I'm a proud parent of 2 LPS students and know from experience that Lincoln has great schools. Eliminating portables as permanent classrooms is needed. Our school board does a terrific job in using our community resources wisely. Lincoln is a great place to live because we place high value in quality education. Our kids are our future! Instead of complaining in blogs try volunteering in one of our schools. You might have a different perspective! "

 Learned in a Portable wrote on October 14, 2008 10:25 pm:
" I take exception with Ujustdontgeti, I learned in a portable thank you. It did not harm me in any way to learn in a portable classroom. I take exception with the LPS system, as well. There is no reason that this school system can't do with less. It needs to start at the top too. Administrative costs have gotten out of hand. Take a pay cut if necessary.
Second, the LPS needs to look at every avenue possible to make the dollars stretch as far as possible. When the public school system starting fleecing the public it gave away its right to do things any which way.
I still contend that a property tax revolt will happen if they continue to do this, then the schools will be forced to make serious cutbacks. It would be easier to do them now than when forced. "

 Charge wrote on October 15, 2008 12:54 am:
" Where are our crusaders? LIBA. Oh,LIBA! Where art thou, LIBA? Stop this foolishness for us. "

 jeff wrote on October 15, 2008 1:55 am:
" I m furious with LPS your going to close hawthorne then renovate it!!! Thats crazy. There is nothing wrong with a portable as long as it has heat and aircondition then there should be no problem. 10 years!!! huh so they ll be asking voters again in a few years for more millions then. Its crazy I m sick of it put the wallets away for awhile "

 Adam wrote on October 15, 2008 6:13 am:
" Parking space? I wasn't aware roper elementary students drove themselves to school. I wish there was a better understanding by our community when it comes to spending money on our education. The money that is spent is so YOUR kids get the best education possible. The money being spent will be put to good use. We need to get over the idea that out school districts are in a small town. We need to expand. We need new buildings. We need you to stop being greedy about your money and give the kids what they need. "

 Bill wrote on October 15, 2008 7:06 am:
" I agree that the LPS Administration needs some serious oversight. There is too much spending at that level and nobody watches it. The staff go on boon doggles and lots of spending happens for "much needed" office furniture and computers. For all those of you saying the school system needs the money - YOU are the ones not informed. Go into LPS Administration some time and look around. Too, too much spending and no oversight. "

 Kate wrote on October 15, 2008 8:16 am:
" Portables in LPS have a 10 year life expectancy - and many of them have been in use since 1987 -- that's 21 years. They are drafty - only have plumbing in some of them -- meaning children leave the portable to go into the building for lunch, music, physical education, technology, etc.

Teachers are phenomenal - and make them an adequate learning environment -- but they are NOT optimal.

All schools need to have indoor air quality conditions that provide equitable learning opportunities for all children. All children deserve that.

As for Hawthorne -- the building looks like it is in pretty good shape -and has a very large playground - if it's not going to be used as an elementary school -- and we already own the site -- wouldn't it be better to renovate it and use it rather than building something new. My complaint -- why not tell the taxpayers what they want to do with it -- or at least give us some of the options.

AND --

one of our jobs as taxpayers is demanding accountability -- Making sure the investment in our schools benefits our children, our community and our future. "

 Abe wrote on October 15, 2008 8:21 am:
" Can we fire the Superintendent? She seems to just like to spend more and more money. I support the schools but when they asked for a quarter of billion dollars to build schools they turned around and closed schools because they had too much space, I was mad!!!! Send her west coast spending back to the west coast. Given all of the senior administration that decided to "retire" since she came on board, Gourley seems like she could be the Stevie P of the school district. Let's change course before it is too late! "

 Giving Back wrote on October 15, 2008 8:30 am:
" Some of you people do not even realize that the FOUNDATION of a strong community are the public schools! A good quality education can prevent many of society's problems. Many people before you sacrificed so you could have a good quality public education. Now it is your turn. Quit all of your complaining and whining and do something about it if you don't like it. Run for school board, call your school board representative, something. Quit finger-pointing like you know exactly how a school district operates. We are not a business. We are not for profit. Just because you went to school, doesn't mean that you know how to be a teacher. I have been to the dentist many times, that does not equate to me knowing how to be a dentist. You don't get criticized everyday in blogs, online postings, etc. everyday on how you are doing at work or how your business is operating. We are at the forefront of the court of public opinion. Guilty until proven innocent. Your sarcastic comments only make you sound extremely bitter that you have to GIVE BACK. Some of us pay A LOT of property taxes also. I just know that the money is going to educate the children of this community. You think LPS just gets these bags and bags of money and then flushes it all down the toilet while laughing at you behind closed walls. Go to a school board meeting and voice your opinion. You are a coward if all you do is post sarcastic comments on JournalStar.com.

As for all of you that want the portables to stay: try spending one day in there. You wouldn't last long. You have no clue...admit it...you're just bitter and uninformed. Quite sad if you ask me. "

 Scptt wrote on October 15, 2008 9:12 am:
" I am honestly taken back by some of the comments on this page, never having taken the time to write on an article I believe this one is important. If you are writing in opposition you this article and the renovations to Lincoln Schools it is appalling apparent that you have not been in anyone of these buildings. Portables are not a solution, but a temporary must when other space is not available. These renovations are a MUST, these schools need to be updated for our future generations. As a former student of LPS I can tell you this money will not be spent in vain. Finally, all you whiners get over it, this is your duty as a citizen to support our community, we must begin supporting all the programs of the cities if they are going to stay in existence. "

 Its for the children wrote on October 15, 2008 9:16 am:
" I hope all the Lincoln sheep who voted for the $250 million bond are happy. And get this, one of the LPS board members wants to be on the County Board so she can spend even more money! "

 A Teacher wrote on October 15, 2008 9:20 am:
" In my tenure in LPS, I have spent several years teaching in various portables. The last one, this past school year, had three leaks in the roof, mold growing, windows that would not seal, cracks through the walls that allowed cold air - as well as stinging insects in. I won't even talk about the carpet or what was growing under it. While some of you may disagree with the Board's decision, I would like to point out my experience in a portable classroom was something less than a desirable learning environment. i might add, this portable literally went from housing students on the last day of school to literally being destroyed in site the next day. The young people of Lincoln are our future. what does it say if they are not afforded an environment that is conducive to learning let alone not being a health risk? "

 Sigh wrote on October 15, 2008 10:06 am:
" Here we go again...everyone whining about someone spending money. We have an obligation to fund education, health care and other services that the state provides. Have you ever tried to have a class in a portable? It's not good. They have the bond money. Let them spend it. I can think of worse things for my tax money to be used on than education. "

 JMK wrote on October 15, 2008 11:44 am:
" this will end up costing taxpayers more money. It doesn't matter that they say they have the funds, it will cost us in the end. "

 as wrote on October 15, 2008 1:16 pm:
" I definitely do not object to LPS using funds to getting rid of portables. If that is what will truly happen. I do object to the waste of taxpayer $ on the administrative level both at the schools & in the district office, the over the top salaries for assistant superintendents (& Gourley) while they keep teacher salaries low, unnecessary renovations & closures, improper geographic boundaries, & ridiculous bussing standards (we won't bus if you live far away but we do bus all of our immigrant students).

Remember with LPS it is always for the children but never actually spent on the kids themselves. I'd really love to see a report of their administrative/overhead costs "

 Portables wrote on October 15, 2008 1:20 pm:
" Yes...I am all in favor of portables. I love having little kids walking in snow, rain, sleet, and extreme heat to get to another building since there's not enough room in the main building.

You know it sucks when you have to wear gloves to class. "

 Katy8 wrote on October 15, 2008 2:51 pm:
" I voted for the bond and I'm very happy with the updates to our school buildings. I'm happy many of the schools are getting air conditioned so I don't have to attend parent-teacher conferences in an oven. And I'm extremely pleased that the kids at Southeast don't have to eat lunch on the floor in the hallways anymore. There's finally enough room for everyone to eat in the cafeteria! Why don't you folks that are so unhappy about this building process start volunteering like proud parent suggested! It will definitely give you a different perspective. "

 I do go to school board meetings wrote on October 15, 2008 4:07 pm:
" To Giving Back: I do go to school board meetings. I do voice my opinion. I do write letters. I stay on top of the issues. However, not once has the school board had a meeting that I have gone to where they made a decision based on what they heard from the parents/taxpayers in the room. They already had their minds made up and it has been a farce. I have had kids in the LPS system for a long time, and this attitude has never changed. I don't have a problem with spending money on the improvement of schools, but there is NO oversight and administrative costs are ridiculous. I think that is what most people get upset about. "

 Bill wrote on October 15, 2008 9:41 pm:
" Like I said before and I'll say it again. Spend -spend - spend and no oversight. All those of you who say hey it's for the kids - get over yourself and go look at Administration. Too too much spending and too too little oversight. It's a waste and you close your eyes and say the money goes to the kids - I'm laughing out loud "

 Sean wrote on October 16, 2008 11:02 am:
" This is exactly why lancaster no longer gets my tax money. I never did understand why there are no enrollment fee's?! Every other state I have been in there are some type of enrollment fee's. Make sense that people going to the schools pay for a majority of the efforts. When tax payers give the schools money, it seems to go very quick into pork barrel projects. "

 Education wrote on October 16, 2008 12:51 pm:
" Why would anyone want our hard earned money spent on....EDUCATION for our children? America is MILES behind foriegn countries such as Japan and China in terms of education, but let's not do anything to fix that. In the words of Pink Floyd, "We don't need no education." "

 I agree with the person wrote on October 16, 2008 8:17 pm:
" complaining about traffic flow area not increase. They add on to all these schools, have more children attending, but forget to consider how these children get to and from the school. It's not like there are buses to shuttle them. No, we have to have parents' vehicles and daycare vans line up and double park along residental streets that make traffic flow a daily nightmare. We always get the monthly reminder from our school that kids aren't to be arriving more than 5 minutes before the first bell rings. You have got to be kidding, we can't have over 300 kids arriving in vehicles 5 to 7 minutes (the difference between 1st and tardy bells at our elementary school) of each other. "

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