7:30PM High School Winter Concert
The Winter Concert will be held on 12/18 in
the Middle Senior High School auditorium at 7:30PM.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
MHS Winter Concert TONIGHT
Thank you to the emailer for this reminder. This is one of the last chances to see the Morrisville High School in concert. Once the Emperor has his way, . No more high school, no more concerts, no more football, no more...well, you get the idea.
7:30PM High School Winter Concert
The Winter Concert will be held on 12/18 in
the Middle Senior High School auditorium at 7:30PM.
7:30PM High School Winter Concert
The Winter Concert will be held on 12/18 in
the Middle Senior High School auditorium at 7:30PM.
Vitetta Report Available
Now not just for the select elect of the Emperor, the Vitetta Report is available at the district website.
Oddly enough...it reads pretty much like the 2005 report.
You can view the whole group of reports here.
Oddly enough...it reads pretty much like the 2005 report.
You can view the whole group of reports here.
From the Mailbag
Here's an entry from Santa's bulging bag o'email.
I appreciate the readership as well as the feedback.
savethemorrisvilleschool@yahoo.com is open 24/7.
Hello, I'm a relatively new resident to Morrisville, I moved here with my family about a year and a half ago. The idea of a small borough and a small school district where children have a name and are not just a number is what we thought we were getting into. I've been to board meetings, and have been reading your blog for some time now, trying to gain as much information as possible with regards to our current state of affairs in our schools. After last nights meeting, I am disgusted with the way this current board conducts itself!! From board members interrupting each other, and Mr. Hellmann appearing to fall asleep between 10 and 10:30 pm.(Some in the audience actually took a picture of this!)this is no way for a board of elected officials to conduct itself. This board is giving Morrisville a bad name. They should be ashamed of their actions and behavior. This district is small and manageable, but the current board cannot even get through a discussion on a motion without getting snippy and interrupting each other. Its no wonder nothing is getting done. Or perhaps that is the plan, to get nothing done. It seems the majority only wants to save taxes and close schools. It was great to see Mrs. Reithmeyer stand up to Mr. Hellmann, and Mrs. Heater reveal her alarming e-mail from Mr. Hellmann, more members need to see the light(ie:Worab,Mihok,Farrell). Perhaps then we can get back to fixing our schools, and educating our children.
I would like to get more involved and I would like to get our community more involved. Keep up the great work!!
I appreciate the readership as well as the feedback.
savethemorrisvilleschool@yahoo.com is open 24/7.
Hello, I'm a relatively new resident to Morrisville, I moved here with my family about a year and a half ago. The idea of a small borough and a small school district where children have a name and are not just a number is what we thought we were getting into. I've been to board meetings, and have been reading your blog for some time now, trying to gain as much information as possible with regards to our current state of affairs in our schools. After last nights meeting, I am disgusted with the way this current board conducts itself!! From board members interrupting each other, and Mr. Hellmann appearing to fall asleep between 10 and 10:30 pm.(Some in the audience actually took a picture of this!)this is no way for a board of elected officials to conduct itself. This board is giving Morrisville a bad name. They should be ashamed of their actions and behavior. This district is small and manageable, but the current board cannot even get through a discussion on a motion without getting snippy and interrupting each other. Its no wonder nothing is getting done. Or perhaps that is the plan, to get nothing done. It seems the majority only wants to save taxes and close schools. It was great to see Mrs. Reithmeyer stand up to Mr. Hellmann, and Mrs. Heater reveal her alarming e-mail from Mr. Hellmann, more members need to see the light(ie:Worab,Mihok,Farrell). Perhaps then we can get back to fixing our schools, and educating our children.
I would like to get more involved and I would like to get our community more involved. Keep up the great work!!
Bucks Bucking Trend?
From the BCCT.
Bucks will not raise taxes in ’09
County officials used $3.2 million from a reserve fund, increased conservative revenue projections and cut vehicle costs.
By JENNA PORTNOY
For the third consecutive year, Bucks County will not raise taxes in 2009, instead opting to take a $3.2 million budget shortfall from the rainy day fund.
The county finance department cut an initial $7.1 million spending gap nearly in half mostly by increasing conservative revenue projections and reducing vehicle costs.
Poor performance on pension fund investments and a 12 percent increase in health care costs account for a $6.8 million budget hit.
The tax rate will remain at 21.9 mills next year. That means a resident owning property assessed at the county average of $35,942 will pay $789 in taxes next year, the same as in 2007 and 2008. A mill is a tax of $1 on every $1,000 of assessed value.
Commissioners approved the $467.6 million spending plan by a vote of 2-1, along party lines. All three commissioners praised the county financial team. Taking money from the rainy day fund will reduce the total to about $68 million.
Commissioner Diane Marseglia, the only Democrat on the three-member board, said she wanted commissioners to enforce 2 percent across-the-board cuts for all departments, eliminate a human resources position, drop benefits for row officers’ solicitors and reduce 3 percent cost of living raises for non-union workers. Marseglia also objected to the budget process, which she said discourages the public discussion of potential cuts and their implications.
No members of the public attended a public hearing on the budget.
Commissioner Jim Cawley, a Republican, has said if the county ever decided to reduce raises, the move would have to affect all employees, both union and non-union.
Brian Hessenthaler, director of finance and administration, said the county’s projections still reflect the global financial meltdown, but to a lesser extent than first anticipated. For example, the final budget anticipates fewer delinquent taxpayers — down from 4 percent to about 3 percent — which added $1.7 million to the spending plan.
He also found an additional $360,000 in gaming revenue; $175,000 in revenue from clerk of courts, prothonotary and sheriff ’s fees and $55,000 from a health department grant that will not expire next year as previously anticipated. The county plans to bring in $1 million from the sale of the Quakertown Annex on Route 309.
The county will not hire a public records officer at a salary of $61,800. Instead, the county will name an existing employee to fulfill duties mandated by the state Right to Know law.
Hessenthaler asked all county departments to slash 10 percent from their budgets in case the state makes drastic cuts that affect county spending. Although only about half of the departments responded, he said, the revised budgets helped him identify $100,000 in deferred vehicle purchases.
The other departments will be made to comply and if more savings can be identified, Hessenthaler will make additional cuts.
Corrections also wanted to spend $148,000 on vehicles next year. Instead the purchases were postponed or officials will use unassigned cars from the county fleet. Finally, he said, the county will save $16,000 by taking cars away from 18 employees assigned vehicles 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Commissioners plan to hold a special meeting 6 p.m. Dec. 29 to set the salary for two elected jury commissioners. Commissioner Charley Martin, also a Republican, suggested eliminating the jobs, which pay $19,600 each plus benefits, but that must be accomplished at the state level.
The state-mandated minimum salary is $10,500. Any changes would affect officials beginning four-year terms in 2010.
Bucks will not raise taxes in ’09
County officials used $3.2 million from a reserve fund, increased conservative revenue projections and cut vehicle costs.
By JENNA PORTNOY
For the third consecutive year, Bucks County will not raise taxes in 2009, instead opting to take a $3.2 million budget shortfall from the rainy day fund.
The county finance department cut an initial $7.1 million spending gap nearly in half mostly by increasing conservative revenue projections and reducing vehicle costs.
Poor performance on pension fund investments and a 12 percent increase in health care costs account for a $6.8 million budget hit.
The tax rate will remain at 21.9 mills next year. That means a resident owning property assessed at the county average of $35,942 will pay $789 in taxes next year, the same as in 2007 and 2008. A mill is a tax of $1 on every $1,000 of assessed value.
Commissioners approved the $467.6 million spending plan by a vote of 2-1, along party lines. All three commissioners praised the county financial team. Taking money from the rainy day fund will reduce the total to about $68 million.
Commissioner Diane Marseglia, the only Democrat on the three-member board, said she wanted commissioners to enforce 2 percent across-the-board cuts for all departments, eliminate a human resources position, drop benefits for row officers’ solicitors and reduce 3 percent cost of living raises for non-union workers. Marseglia also objected to the budget process, which she said discourages the public discussion of potential cuts and their implications.
No members of the public attended a public hearing on the budget.
Commissioner Jim Cawley, a Republican, has said if the county ever decided to reduce raises, the move would have to affect all employees, both union and non-union.
Brian Hessenthaler, director of finance and administration, said the county’s projections still reflect the global financial meltdown, but to a lesser extent than first anticipated. For example, the final budget anticipates fewer delinquent taxpayers — down from 4 percent to about 3 percent — which added $1.7 million to the spending plan.
He also found an additional $360,000 in gaming revenue; $175,000 in revenue from clerk of courts, prothonotary and sheriff ’s fees and $55,000 from a health department grant that will not expire next year as previously anticipated. The county plans to bring in $1 million from the sale of the Quakertown Annex on Route 309.
The county will not hire a public records officer at a salary of $61,800. Instead, the county will name an existing employee to fulfill duties mandated by the state Right to Know law.
Hessenthaler asked all county departments to slash 10 percent from their budgets in case the state makes drastic cuts that affect county spending. Although only about half of the departments responded, he said, the revised budgets helped him identify $100,000 in deferred vehicle purchases.
The other departments will be made to comply and if more savings can be identified, Hessenthaler will make additional cuts.
Corrections also wanted to spend $148,000 on vehicles next year. Instead the purchases were postponed or officials will use unassigned cars from the county fleet. Finally, he said, the county will save $16,000 by taking cars away from 18 employees assigned vehicles 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Commissioners plan to hold a special meeting 6 p.m. Dec. 29 to set the salary for two elected jury commissioners. Commissioner Charley Martin, also a Republican, suggested eliminating the jobs, which pay $19,600 each plus benefits, but that must be accomplished at the state level.
The state-mandated minimum salary is $10,500. Any changes would affect officials beginning four-year terms in 2010.
Budget Blues Continue: Bensalem
From the BCCT.
District faces estimated $7M shortfall in 2009-10
The school board can only raise taxes a certain amount to cover the shortfall, and it’s not enough to cover all the projected expenses.
By JOAN HELLYER
The Bensalem School District could face an estimated $7 million revenue shortfall in the coming school year, according to 2009-10 projections reviewed by the school board Wednesday night.
Preliminary projections suggest expenses will increase from about $109 million in the current school year to just over $114 million in 2009-10, said Jack Myers, the district’s director of business administration.
However, district officials anticipate revenues will be less than $107 million in the coming school year.
The board can raise taxes 4.1 percent over the current tax rate, or 5.33 mills, without asking for voter approval, according to an index determined by the state, said Jack Myers, the district’s director of business administration.
If taxes increase by that amount, the owner of the district’s average assessed property of $22,000 would pay just over $2,977 in taxes in 2009-10.
The additional taxes would bring in about $3 million in extra revenue, Myers said.
The rest of the shortfall could be covered with money from the district’s savings account, known as the fund balance. It’s expected to total about $11.3 million in the upcoming academic year, he said.
Myers did not say how much from the fund should be used to help cover the shortfall.
But he cautioned board members that if they used too much of the savings in the next two years, there would be nothing left to help cover any revenue shortfall in 2011-12.
As required by Act 1, the state’s property tax relief law, the board has to decide if it wants to raise the tax rate above its index to help cover expenses. The only way it can do that is to get voter approval in the May primary.
The board will have another budget work session Jan. 14 to decide how it plans to cover all the expenses in the projected 2009-10 budget.
District faces estimated $7M shortfall in 2009-10
The school board can only raise taxes a certain amount to cover the shortfall, and it’s not enough to cover all the projected expenses.
By JOAN HELLYER
The Bensalem School District could face an estimated $7 million revenue shortfall in the coming school year, according to 2009-10 projections reviewed by the school board Wednesday night.
Preliminary projections suggest expenses will increase from about $109 million in the current school year to just over $114 million in 2009-10, said Jack Myers, the district’s director of business administration.
However, district officials anticipate revenues will be less than $107 million in the coming school year.
The board can raise taxes 4.1 percent over the current tax rate, or 5.33 mills, without asking for voter approval, according to an index determined by the state, said Jack Myers, the district’s director of business administration.
If taxes increase by that amount, the owner of the district’s average assessed property of $22,000 would pay just over $2,977 in taxes in 2009-10.
The additional taxes would bring in about $3 million in extra revenue, Myers said.
The rest of the shortfall could be covered with money from the district’s savings account, known as the fund balance. It’s expected to total about $11.3 million in the upcoming academic year, he said.
Myers did not say how much from the fund should be used to help cover the shortfall.
But he cautioned board members that if they used too much of the savings in the next two years, there would be nothing left to help cover any revenue shortfall in 2011-12.
As required by Act 1, the state’s property tax relief law, the board has to decide if it wants to raise the tax rate above its index to help cover expenses. The only way it can do that is to get voter approval in the May primary.
The board will have another budget work session Jan. 14 to decide how it plans to cover all the expenses in the projected 2009-10 budget.
Is the High School Safe?
The 2005 buildings report also addressed the Middle-Senior High School, the building where most of our children are now located.
We anxiously await the (drum roll please) VITETTA REPORT! Yes, the answer to all our problems, Vitetta will swoop in and tell us what to do.
Let's see if this report gets distributed.
UPDATED: The Vitetta Report is available at the district website.
3.0 Morrisville High School
Executive Summary
With the exception of the main sanitary, fire alarm, security, public address, data and clock systems, the mechanical and electrical systems have exceeded their expected service lives and require replacement. Depending on the new program, portions of the emergency lighting and electrical distribution systems can be retained.
3.1 Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning Systems and Equipment
3.1.1 Unit Ventilators and Air Handling Units
General:
• The majority of the classrooms, both in the original 1958 Building and the 1972 Addition are served by unit ventilators with hot water heating coils and ventilation air provisions. Ventilation is obtained both through the roof and through louvers on the exterior walls.
• Larger spaces, such as the gym, kitchen and the Instructional Materials Center are served by ducted air handling units with a hot water heating coil and outdoor air louvers.
Age/Condition:
• The unit ventilators, air handling units and ductwork are over thirty years old and have far exceeded their useful service lives.
Code Issues:
• Not applicable.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The unit ventilators, air handling units and ductwork systems are not suitable for reuse and must be replaced.
3.1.2 Boilers
General:
• Two oil-fired boilers, which serve HVAC equipment in the original 1968 Building, generate heating water for classroom and corridor heating. Refer to Photograph C1 in Appendix “C”.
• Two oil-fired boilers, which were installed during the 1972 Addition, generate steam to serve heat exchangers. The heat exchangers use the boiler steam to provide heating water for the classrooms, corridors, and office spaces. Refer to Photograph C2 in Appendix “C”.
• Two base-mounted pumps circulate the heating water throughout the 1968 Building.
Refer to Photograph C3 in Appendix “C”.
Age/Condition:
• The boilers and heat exchangers are all over thirty years old and at the end of their useful service lives.
• The base-mounted pumps appear to be approximately five years old, in fair condition, and can be expected to last another ten to fifteen years.
Code Issues:
• There are not apparent code issues related to the base-mounted pumps.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The boilers and heat exchangers, have exceeded their useful lives, are not suitable for reuse or continued use, and must be replaced.
• The pumps are not suited for new energy efficient HVAC systems required by a new program of space use, and must be replaced.
3.1.3 Cooling System
General:
• An existing air handling unit, which serves the Instructional Materials Center was retrofitted with a cooling coil and remote condensing unit in 1996. The dedicated condensing unit, rated for 30 tons cooling, is located in the open courtyard adjacent to the Instructional Materials Center.
• A 5-ton rooftop unit, installed in 1995, serves a conference room and the Business Manager’s Office Area.
• A 10-ton split system, installed in 1997, serves several offices on the west side of the open courtyard.
• Window air conditioners are incidental, have been added as piecemeal appliances at selective locations, and are not addressed further within this report.
Age/Condition:
• The existing air handling unit serving the Instructional Materials Center, as mentioned previously, is beyond it useful service life. Refer to Article 3.2.1 above.
• The 30-ton condensing unit, 5-ton rooftop unit and 10-ton split system are approximately ten years old and can be expected to last another five to eight years.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the cooling system equipment.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The 30-ton condensing unit, 5-ton rooftop unit and 10-ton split system, depending on the planned renovations and new program of space use at the existing unit locations, could be reused.
3.1.4 Underground Oil Tanks
General:
• There are two 12,000 gallon underground oil tanks, one located adjacent to each boiler room. Refer to Photograph C4 in Appendix “C”.
• Oil pumps, located at each boiler, supplies oil from the underground tank to the boilers.
Refer to Photograph C5 in Appendix “C”.
• A 5,000 gallon underground oil tank, which originally served an emergency generator, has been abandoned in-place.
Age/Condition:
• The oil tanks and pumps are over forty years old and have far exceeded their useful service lives.
Code Issues:
• Any repair work resulting from leaks will subject the overall system to compliance with stringent, expensive Federal Environmental Requirements. Prudent evaluation of existing tank/piping system integrity and lead free performance is recommended.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The oil tanks and oil pumps are not suitable for reuse or continued use, and must be replaced.
3.1.5 Automatic Temperature Control System
General:
• Automatic temperature control system is pneumatic and served by multiple air compressors located in each Boiler Room.
Age/Condition:
• The control system appears to be over twenty years old and has far exceeded its useful service life.
Code Issues:
• Not applicable.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The control system is not suitable for reuse or continued use, and must be replaced.
3.1.6 Exhaust Systems
General:
• General and toilet room exhaust is provided by roof mounted fans.
Age/Condition:
• The exhaust fans are over forty years old, have far exceeded their useful service lives, and are not meeting standard performance requirements.
Code Issues:
• Systems are unable to meet Pennsylvania State System Performance Requirements.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The exhaust systems are not suitable for reuse and must be replaced.
3.2 Plumbing Systems and Equipment
3.2.1 Plumbing Fixtures
General:
• Plumbing fixtures consist of water closets, urinals, lavatories, showers, water coolers and hand sinks in various locations throughout the school. Refer to Photographs C6 and C7 in Appendix “C”.
Age/Condition:
• The majority of the plumbing fixtures appear to be at least thirty years old, have far exceeded their useful service lives, are in part faulty, and not capable of repair.
Code Issues:
• Systems are unable to meet Pennsylvania State System Performance Requirements.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• A majority of the plumbing fixtures are not suitable for continued use, much less reuse in an upgraded schoolhouse facility, and must be replaced.
3.2.2 Sanitary and Vent Piping
General:
• The piping is concealed in construction and was not directly observed. For the purposes of this report, it is assumed the piping is cast-iron and of original construction.
• There are no reported problems with the main building sewer.
Age/Condition:
• Sanitary and vent piping system is over thirty years old and has far exceeded its useful service life.
Code Issues:
• Not applicable.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The domestic water piping is not suitable for reuse in an updated, modernized program of space use, and must be replaced.
• The Municipal Water Company should be consulted to determine suitability of overall property water service entrance for expansion of useful capacity.
3.2.3 Domestic Water Piping
General:
• The visible piping is copper and the majority appears to be of original construction.
• A four-inch Municipal water service supplies the property via an entry at the 1973 mechanical room on the south side of the building. There are no reported problems with the service entrance.
Age/Condition:
• The majority of the domestic water piping system is over thirty years old, has far exceeded its useful service life.
Code Issues:
• Not applicable.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The domestic water piping is not suitable for reuse in an updated, modernized program of space use, and must be replaced.
• The Municipal Water Company should be consulted to determine suitability of overall property water service entrance for expansion of useful capacity.
3.2.4 Domestic Water Heaters
General:
• Two propane-fired water heaters with storage tank, located in the 1973 Boiler Room, serve plumbing fixtures in the 1973 Addition. Refer to Photograph C8 in Appendix “C”.
Age/Condition:
• The propane-fired water heaters are approximately eight years old and are in fair condition.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the propane-fired water heaters.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The water heaters are suitable for reuse, depending on capacity to serve an expanded program of space use. The need for additional capacity must be determined.
3.3 Fire Protection Systems and Equipment
3.3.1 Automatic Fire Suppression
General:
• There are no automatic fire suppression systems in the building. If substantial renovation is planned, a trade off cost study will be required to compare fire isolation affected by general construction barriers to full building fire sprinklering at $4.00 per square foot.
3.4 Electrical Systems and Equipment
3.4.1 Electric Service
General:
• Three-Phase underground 4160 VAC electric service conductors originate from PECO utility pole located next to Palmer Street. The service conductor conduits enter the building and into a 500 KVA unit substation with 120/208VAC secondary located off the old boiler room. Refer to Photograph C9 in Appendix “C”. The electric service is metered at the Utility Company Primary Distribution, “PD” rate.
Age/Condition:
• The original District owned, 1958 vintage Federal Pacific Main Dry Transformer failed within the past five years. Temporary emergency service expenses alone, including premium time, and a rental transformer over several months is reported to have cost more than $9,000.00. The permanent, new replacement is said to have cost more than
$30,000.00, again based on premium time, and tight space constraints in the electrical vault.
• Electrical service equipment, with the exception of the transformer which was just recently replaced, is more than thirty years old, in poor condition, and the manufacturer is no longer in business.
Code Issues:
• The transformer secondary is not protected by a main circuit breaker, as required by applicable life safety sections of the National Electric Code.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The Electric service equipment (Federal Pacific) lost UL Certification in 1981, the existing equipment is unsafe for continued use, much less future use.
3.4.2 Service Entrance Switchboard
General:
• The switchboard’s six (6) air circuit breakers supply the entire building. These breakers (Federal Pacific) are no longer manufactured and the company is out of business. Refer to Photograph C10 in Appendix “C”.
Age/Condition:
• Electrical service switchboard is more than thirty years old and in poor condition, manufacturer is no longer in business and parts are unavailable.
Code Issues:
• The switchboard does not meet current life safety codes.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Service entrance switchboard is not acceptable for present use, much less extended use for a new space program.
3.4.3 Branch Circuit Panelboards
General:
• Breaker circuit panels throughout the building supply lighting and general power circuits. There is a lack of available spaces for additional branch circuit breakers in these panels. Refer to Photograph C11 in Appendix “C” for a typical branch circuit panelboard.
Age/Condition:
• Branch circuit panelboards are more than thirty years old, and the manufacturer (Federal
Pacific) is no longer in business. Replacement circuit breakers are not available for these panels.
Code Issues:
• Not applicable.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Panelboards throughout the building are not acceptable for present use, much less in a new space use program.
3.4.4 Interior Lighting Fixtures
General:
• Each classroom has three rows of stem mounted, two lamp T-12, fluorescent direct/ indirect light fixtures. Refer to Photograph C12 in Appendix “C” for typical classroom light fixtures. Corridor lighting is generally 2 x 4 lay-in with prismatic lens and T-12 lamps. Office lighting is 2 x 4 lay-in with ½" parabolic louvers and T-12 lamps.
Age/Condition:
• Fluorescent light fixtures throughout the building are between thirty and forty years old and are in fair condition, but are not energy efficient and contain “PCB” ballasts.
Code Issues:
• Not applicable.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Interior light fixtures and exit signs, located throughout the building, are not suitable for reuse.
3.4.5 Emergency Lighting and Power Distribution
General:
• A diesel fueled 35Kw Onan Emergency generator and automatic transfer switch is located in the new boiler room and supplies power to life safety systems, emergency lighting, and one boiler and pump.
Age/Condition:
• The generator and transfer switch is less than two years old and in good condition.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the generator and transfer switch.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The generator and transfer switch are suitable for reuse.
3.4.6 Exterior Lighting Fixture
General:
• Pole mounted HID lighting fixtures are used in the parking lot using photocells for control. HID lights are mounted around perimeter of building for security lighting.
Age/Condition:
• Exterior HID light fixtures are in acceptable condition.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the exterior lighting fixtures.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Exterior Light fixtures are suitable for reuse.
3.4.7 Fire Alarm and Fire Detection System
General:
• The fire alarm system is a non-coded addressable system with pull stations and notification devices.
• Audio/visual alarm units are located in corridors and toilet rooms.
• Fire alarm control equipment is manufactured by Silent Night Company, and replacement parts are available. All alarms report to a central station. Refer to Photograph C13 in Appendix “C”. The Owner reports no problems with false alarms.
• Only a few smoke and heat detectors were observed.
Age/Condition:
• Fire alarm detection system equipment is less than two years old and in good condition.
Code Issues:
• Audio/Visual alarm units are not located in each classroom and office space, which fails to meet regulations of the Americans With Disabilities Act.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Fire alarm and detection system equipment is suitable for reuse. The system must be expanded for addition of code required smoke detectors and audio/visual alarm units.
3.4.8 Public Address System
General:
• The Public Address (PA) and communication equipment was manufactured by Bogen Company, and includes: control panel in the administration office; speakers in all classrooms, corridors and offices; and handsets that provide intercommunication between classrooms and the main office.
Age/Condition:
• PA system equipment is approximately ten years old and in fair condition. Replacement parts are available for this system.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the PA system.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• PA system equipment is suitable for reuse.
3.4.9 Computer Data Network System
General:
• Minimal data network outlets are located in each classroom. The data outlets are wired to a central data network patch panel. The data network system components are Category 5 rated.
Age/Condition:
• Data network system equipment is in good condition and is approximately seven years old. The data network file server equipment is approximately five years old.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the data network system.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Data network system equipment is suitable for continued use. Extensions will be required to suite the new program of use.
3.4.10 Clock and Change of Class Program System
General:
• Lathom Corporation manufactured the clock system. Replacement parts are available for this system. The clock control panel is located in the administration office and clocks are located in all classrooms. Refer to Photograph C14 in Appendix “C”.
Age/Condition:
• Clock control panel and all clocks are between five and ten years old and in good
condition.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the clock system equipment.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Clock system equipment is suitable for reuse and expansion.
3.4.11 Security and Intrusion Detection System
General:
• Building intrusion detection system equipment includes motion detectors in corridors and selected classrooms wired to control equipment in the first floor Small Group Instruction Room. Audio alarms are located on each floor in the corridor. Napco manufactured the motion detection system equipment and replacement parts are available.
Age/Condition:
• Intrusion detection system equipment is two to three years old and is in good condition.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the intrusion detection system.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Intrusion detection system equipment is suitable for reuse and expansion.
3.4.12 Auditorium Lighting and Dimming System
General:
• Lighting in the auditorium is recessed incandescent fixtures connected to the dimming system. Lighting level is generally poor and lamps are continually being replaced at significant expense.
• The dimming panel and remote control unit are forty years old, substantially inoperative, no longer in production, and parts are unavailable. The sound system is also of the same vintage. Both Sound and Stage Lighting Control Systems are not suitable for present use, much less extended use in an upgraded facility with modern space program.
• The stage lighting appears to be adequate, but the stage spotlights are forty years old and not energy efficient.
Age/Condition:
• The lighting and dimming system is approximately forty years old, and in poor condition.
Code Issues:
• There is insufficient working space around the dimming rack.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The lighting and dimming system are not suitable for reuse.
3.4.13 Gymnasium Lighting
General:
• Lighting fixtures are twin hi-bay lighting fixtures with one mercury vapor lamp and one incandescent lamp on separate circuits.
• The mercury vapor lamp is inefficient compared to the newer HID light source.
Age/Condition:
• The lighting fixtures are approximately forty years old, and no longer made. Spare parts are not available.
Code Issues:
• Not applicable.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The lighting system is not suitable for reuse.
We anxiously await the (drum roll please) VITETTA REPORT! Yes, the answer to all our problems, Vitetta will swoop in and tell us what to do.
Let's see if this report gets distributed.
UPDATED: The Vitetta Report is available at the district website.
3.0 Morrisville High School
Executive Summary
With the exception of the main sanitary, fire alarm, security, public address, data and clock systems, the mechanical and electrical systems have exceeded their expected service lives and require replacement. Depending on the new program, portions of the emergency lighting and electrical distribution systems can be retained.
3.1 Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning Systems and Equipment
3.1.1 Unit Ventilators and Air Handling Units
General:
• The majority of the classrooms, both in the original 1958 Building and the 1972 Addition are served by unit ventilators with hot water heating coils and ventilation air provisions. Ventilation is obtained both through the roof and through louvers on the exterior walls.
• Larger spaces, such as the gym, kitchen and the Instructional Materials Center are served by ducted air handling units with a hot water heating coil and outdoor air louvers.
Age/Condition:
• The unit ventilators, air handling units and ductwork are over thirty years old and have far exceeded their useful service lives.
Code Issues:
• Not applicable.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The unit ventilators, air handling units and ductwork systems are not suitable for reuse and must be replaced.
3.1.2 Boilers
General:
• Two oil-fired boilers, which serve HVAC equipment in the original 1968 Building, generate heating water for classroom and corridor heating. Refer to Photograph C1 in Appendix “C”.
• Two oil-fired boilers, which were installed during the 1972 Addition, generate steam to serve heat exchangers. The heat exchangers use the boiler steam to provide heating water for the classrooms, corridors, and office spaces. Refer to Photograph C2 in Appendix “C”.
• Two base-mounted pumps circulate the heating water throughout the 1968 Building.
Refer to Photograph C3 in Appendix “C”.
Age/Condition:
• The boilers and heat exchangers are all over thirty years old and at the end of their useful service lives.
• The base-mounted pumps appear to be approximately five years old, in fair condition, and can be expected to last another ten to fifteen years.
Code Issues:
• There are not apparent code issues related to the base-mounted pumps.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The boilers and heat exchangers, have exceeded their useful lives, are not suitable for reuse or continued use, and must be replaced.
• The pumps are not suited for new energy efficient HVAC systems required by a new program of space use, and must be replaced.
3.1.3 Cooling System
General:
• An existing air handling unit, which serves the Instructional Materials Center was retrofitted with a cooling coil and remote condensing unit in 1996. The dedicated condensing unit, rated for 30 tons cooling, is located in the open courtyard adjacent to the Instructional Materials Center.
• A 5-ton rooftop unit, installed in 1995, serves a conference room and the Business Manager’s Office Area.
• A 10-ton split system, installed in 1997, serves several offices on the west side of the open courtyard.
• Window air conditioners are incidental, have been added as piecemeal appliances at selective locations, and are not addressed further within this report.
Age/Condition:
• The existing air handling unit serving the Instructional Materials Center, as mentioned previously, is beyond it useful service life. Refer to Article 3.2.1 above.
• The 30-ton condensing unit, 5-ton rooftop unit and 10-ton split system are approximately ten years old and can be expected to last another five to eight years.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the cooling system equipment.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The 30-ton condensing unit, 5-ton rooftop unit and 10-ton split system, depending on the planned renovations and new program of space use at the existing unit locations, could be reused.
3.1.4 Underground Oil Tanks
General:
• There are two 12,000 gallon underground oil tanks, one located adjacent to each boiler room. Refer to Photograph C4 in Appendix “C”.
• Oil pumps, located at each boiler, supplies oil from the underground tank to the boilers.
Refer to Photograph C5 in Appendix “C”.
• A 5,000 gallon underground oil tank, which originally served an emergency generator, has been abandoned in-place.
Age/Condition:
• The oil tanks and pumps are over forty years old and have far exceeded their useful service lives.
Code Issues:
• Any repair work resulting from leaks will subject the overall system to compliance with stringent, expensive Federal Environmental Requirements. Prudent evaluation of existing tank/piping system integrity and lead free performance is recommended.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The oil tanks and oil pumps are not suitable for reuse or continued use, and must be replaced.
3.1.5 Automatic Temperature Control System
General:
• Automatic temperature control system is pneumatic and served by multiple air compressors located in each Boiler Room.
Age/Condition:
• The control system appears to be over twenty years old and has far exceeded its useful service life.
Code Issues:
• Not applicable.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The control system is not suitable for reuse or continued use, and must be replaced.
3.1.6 Exhaust Systems
General:
• General and toilet room exhaust is provided by roof mounted fans.
Age/Condition:
• The exhaust fans are over forty years old, have far exceeded their useful service lives, and are not meeting standard performance requirements.
Code Issues:
• Systems are unable to meet Pennsylvania State System Performance Requirements.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The exhaust systems are not suitable for reuse and must be replaced.
3.2 Plumbing Systems and Equipment
3.2.1 Plumbing Fixtures
General:
• Plumbing fixtures consist of water closets, urinals, lavatories, showers, water coolers and hand sinks in various locations throughout the school. Refer to Photographs C6 and C7 in Appendix “C”.
Age/Condition:
• The majority of the plumbing fixtures appear to be at least thirty years old, have far exceeded their useful service lives, are in part faulty, and not capable of repair.
Code Issues:
• Systems are unable to meet Pennsylvania State System Performance Requirements.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• A majority of the plumbing fixtures are not suitable for continued use, much less reuse in an upgraded schoolhouse facility, and must be replaced.
3.2.2 Sanitary and Vent Piping
General:
• The piping is concealed in construction and was not directly observed. For the purposes of this report, it is assumed the piping is cast-iron and of original construction.
• There are no reported problems with the main building sewer.
Age/Condition:
• Sanitary and vent piping system is over thirty years old and has far exceeded its useful service life.
Code Issues:
• Not applicable.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The domestic water piping is not suitable for reuse in an updated, modernized program of space use, and must be replaced.
• The Municipal Water Company should be consulted to determine suitability of overall property water service entrance for expansion of useful capacity.
3.2.3 Domestic Water Piping
General:
• The visible piping is copper and the majority appears to be of original construction.
• A four-inch Municipal water service supplies the property via an entry at the 1973 mechanical room on the south side of the building. There are no reported problems with the service entrance.
Age/Condition:
• The majority of the domestic water piping system is over thirty years old, has far exceeded its useful service life.
Code Issues:
• Not applicable.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The domestic water piping is not suitable for reuse in an updated, modernized program of space use, and must be replaced.
• The Municipal Water Company should be consulted to determine suitability of overall property water service entrance for expansion of useful capacity.
3.2.4 Domestic Water Heaters
General:
• Two propane-fired water heaters with storage tank, located in the 1973 Boiler Room, serve plumbing fixtures in the 1973 Addition. Refer to Photograph C8 in Appendix “C”.
Age/Condition:
• The propane-fired water heaters are approximately eight years old and are in fair condition.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the propane-fired water heaters.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The water heaters are suitable for reuse, depending on capacity to serve an expanded program of space use. The need for additional capacity must be determined.
3.3 Fire Protection Systems and Equipment
3.3.1 Automatic Fire Suppression
General:
• There are no automatic fire suppression systems in the building. If substantial renovation is planned, a trade off cost study will be required to compare fire isolation affected by general construction barriers to full building fire sprinklering at $4.00 per square foot.
3.4 Electrical Systems and Equipment
3.4.1 Electric Service
General:
• Three-Phase underground 4160 VAC electric service conductors originate from PECO utility pole located next to Palmer Street. The service conductor conduits enter the building and into a 500 KVA unit substation with 120/208VAC secondary located off the old boiler room. Refer to Photograph C9 in Appendix “C”. The electric service is metered at the Utility Company Primary Distribution, “PD” rate.
Age/Condition:
• The original District owned, 1958 vintage Federal Pacific Main Dry Transformer failed within the past five years. Temporary emergency service expenses alone, including premium time, and a rental transformer over several months is reported to have cost more than $9,000.00. The permanent, new replacement is said to have cost more than
$30,000.00, again based on premium time, and tight space constraints in the electrical vault.
• Electrical service equipment, with the exception of the transformer which was just recently replaced, is more than thirty years old, in poor condition, and the manufacturer is no longer in business.
Code Issues:
• The transformer secondary is not protected by a main circuit breaker, as required by applicable life safety sections of the National Electric Code.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The Electric service equipment (Federal Pacific) lost UL Certification in 1981, the existing equipment is unsafe for continued use, much less future use.
3.4.2 Service Entrance Switchboard
General:
• The switchboard’s six (6) air circuit breakers supply the entire building. These breakers (Federal Pacific) are no longer manufactured and the company is out of business. Refer to Photograph C10 in Appendix “C”.
Age/Condition:
• Electrical service switchboard is more than thirty years old and in poor condition, manufacturer is no longer in business and parts are unavailable.
Code Issues:
• The switchboard does not meet current life safety codes.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Service entrance switchboard is not acceptable for present use, much less extended use for a new space program.
3.4.3 Branch Circuit Panelboards
General:
• Breaker circuit panels throughout the building supply lighting and general power circuits. There is a lack of available spaces for additional branch circuit breakers in these panels. Refer to Photograph C11 in Appendix “C” for a typical branch circuit panelboard.
Age/Condition:
• Branch circuit panelboards are more than thirty years old, and the manufacturer (Federal
Pacific) is no longer in business. Replacement circuit breakers are not available for these panels.
Code Issues:
• Not applicable.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Panelboards throughout the building are not acceptable for present use, much less in a new space use program.
3.4.4 Interior Lighting Fixtures
General:
• Each classroom has three rows of stem mounted, two lamp T-12, fluorescent direct/ indirect light fixtures. Refer to Photograph C12 in Appendix “C” for typical classroom light fixtures. Corridor lighting is generally 2 x 4 lay-in with prismatic lens and T-12 lamps. Office lighting is 2 x 4 lay-in with ½" parabolic louvers and T-12 lamps.
Age/Condition:
• Fluorescent light fixtures throughout the building are between thirty and forty years old and are in fair condition, but are not energy efficient and contain “PCB” ballasts.
Code Issues:
• Not applicable.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Interior light fixtures and exit signs, located throughout the building, are not suitable for reuse.
3.4.5 Emergency Lighting and Power Distribution
General:
• A diesel fueled 35Kw Onan Emergency generator and automatic transfer switch is located in the new boiler room and supplies power to life safety systems, emergency lighting, and one boiler and pump.
Age/Condition:
• The generator and transfer switch is less than two years old and in good condition.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the generator and transfer switch.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The generator and transfer switch are suitable for reuse.
3.4.6 Exterior Lighting Fixture
General:
• Pole mounted HID lighting fixtures are used in the parking lot using photocells for control. HID lights are mounted around perimeter of building for security lighting.
Age/Condition:
• Exterior HID light fixtures are in acceptable condition.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the exterior lighting fixtures.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Exterior Light fixtures are suitable for reuse.
3.4.7 Fire Alarm and Fire Detection System
General:
• The fire alarm system is a non-coded addressable system with pull stations and notification devices.
• Audio/visual alarm units are located in corridors and toilet rooms.
• Fire alarm control equipment is manufactured by Silent Night Company, and replacement parts are available. All alarms report to a central station. Refer to Photograph C13 in Appendix “C”. The Owner reports no problems with false alarms.
• Only a few smoke and heat detectors were observed.
Age/Condition:
• Fire alarm detection system equipment is less than two years old and in good condition.
Code Issues:
• Audio/Visual alarm units are not located in each classroom and office space, which fails to meet regulations of the Americans With Disabilities Act.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Fire alarm and detection system equipment is suitable for reuse. The system must be expanded for addition of code required smoke detectors and audio/visual alarm units.
3.4.8 Public Address System
General:
• The Public Address (PA) and communication equipment was manufactured by Bogen Company, and includes: control panel in the administration office; speakers in all classrooms, corridors and offices; and handsets that provide intercommunication between classrooms and the main office.
Age/Condition:
• PA system equipment is approximately ten years old and in fair condition. Replacement parts are available for this system.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the PA system.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• PA system equipment is suitable for reuse.
3.4.9 Computer Data Network System
General:
• Minimal data network outlets are located in each classroom. The data outlets are wired to a central data network patch panel. The data network system components are Category 5 rated.
Age/Condition:
• Data network system equipment is in good condition and is approximately seven years old. The data network file server equipment is approximately five years old.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the data network system.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Data network system equipment is suitable for continued use. Extensions will be required to suite the new program of use.
3.4.10 Clock and Change of Class Program System
General:
• Lathom Corporation manufactured the clock system. Replacement parts are available for this system. The clock control panel is located in the administration office and clocks are located in all classrooms. Refer to Photograph C14 in Appendix “C”.
Age/Condition:
• Clock control panel and all clocks are between five and ten years old and in good
condition.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the clock system equipment.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Clock system equipment is suitable for reuse and expansion.
3.4.11 Security and Intrusion Detection System
General:
• Building intrusion detection system equipment includes motion detectors in corridors and selected classrooms wired to control equipment in the first floor Small Group Instruction Room. Audio alarms are located on each floor in the corridor. Napco manufactured the motion detection system equipment and replacement parts are available.
Age/Condition:
• Intrusion detection system equipment is two to three years old and is in good condition.
Code Issues:
• There are no apparent code issues related to the intrusion detection system.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• Intrusion detection system equipment is suitable for reuse and expansion.
3.4.12 Auditorium Lighting and Dimming System
General:
• Lighting in the auditorium is recessed incandescent fixtures connected to the dimming system. Lighting level is generally poor and lamps are continually being replaced at significant expense.
• The dimming panel and remote control unit are forty years old, substantially inoperative, no longer in production, and parts are unavailable. The sound system is also of the same vintage. Both Sound and Stage Lighting Control Systems are not suitable for present use, much less extended use in an upgraded facility with modern space program.
• The stage lighting appears to be adequate, but the stage spotlights are forty years old and not energy efficient.
Age/Condition:
• The lighting and dimming system is approximately forty years old, and in poor condition.
Code Issues:
• There is insufficient working space around the dimming rack.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The lighting and dimming system are not suitable for reuse.
3.4.13 Gymnasium Lighting
General:
• Lighting fixtures are twin hi-bay lighting fixtures with one mercury vapor lamp and one incandescent lamp on separate circuits.
• The mercury vapor lamp is inefficient compared to the newer HID light source.
Age/Condition:
• The lighting fixtures are approximately forty years old, and no longer made. Spare parts are not available.
Code Issues:
• Not applicable.
Suitability for General Reuse:
• The lighting system is not suitable for reuse.
Hellmann'$ Chri$tmas Pre$ent
From the BCCT.
Doe$ $crooge ever receive the the me$$age from the three gho$t$? Or were the dream$ $imply returned to $ender, addre$$ unknown?
The children of Morri$ville are only dollar $ign$ to the Emperor Pre$ident. They are $imply another commodity to be traded, bought, and $old.
The Emperor'$ opening $tatement recounting all the $aving$ he ha$ $upplied $howed much more that dollar$ and cent$ It $howed u$ an empty void. How $ad.
Voter$: We got what we paid for. Enjoy the $aving$.
Board plans hearing to close Reiter
Angry parents packed the meeting room to oppose the move. “Our community’s children are not numbers,” said one.
By MANASEE WAGH
After a 25-minute-late start and much heated finger-pointing, the Morrisville School Board voted Wednesday night to advertise for a public hearing to close M.R. Reiter Elementary School.
The hearing would be set for Wednesday, Jan. 14. Board members Robin Reithmeyer, Gloria Heater and Joseph Kemp voted against the advertisement. Board member Al Radosti was absent.
At least 150 residents packed the meeting room, many of them parents of elementary schoolchildren.
Prior to the vote, the board heard public comment from nearly 20 different borough residents, the majority of whom were angry and emotional about the move toward closing the school without determining where to place its more than 250 students safely.
“If these were your children, would you even consider this option?” elementary PTO President Robin Tohm asked the board.
She broke down in tears as she thanked the district staff and administrators for smoothly transitioning Reiter students to alternative locations temporarily after a late night explosion in Reiter’s furnace room blew out windows in the building on Dec. 13.
From Dec. 17 until at least Jan. 5, Reiter students are to attend class at alternative district locations, including the Morrisville YMCA, the Middle/Senior High School and Grandview Elementary School.
Parents expressed anger over board President William Hellmann’s statement at the start of the meeting outlining how much the current board is saving the borough in tax money through canceling last year’s planned construction of a new, $30 million consolidated school for all grades.
They were also upset about Hellmann’s recent e-mail exchanges with other board members in which he called the deteriorating Reiter a “rat trap” that is consuming borough funds for continued maintenance. Hellmann’s e-mail suggested putting all 400-plus elementary school students from Reiter and Grandview into the middle/senior high school.
“Our community’s children are not numbers,” said parent Damon Miller. “You can’t just shuffle them around.”
Putting all grades into the high school would be extremely difficult, since that building caters to older students’ needs, the administration has said.
In case students cannot return to Reiter during the rest of this school year because of safety concerns, they would be set up in modular units at Grandview, said Elizabeth Yonson, district superintendent. The estimated cost of those units could be $108,000, said administrators.
For an hour before the vote to hold a public hearing, board members argued loudly among themselves about what they did or did not do toward fixing the districts’ three schools this past year. Shouts and comments against the board majority and applause for those who spoke against the board president punctuated their arguments.
Board member Gloria Heater accused Hellmann of trying to get some board members to come to a vote about the future of the schools behind other board members’ backs.
At that, some residents yelled at Hellmann, “Resign now!”
A representative from Vitetta, the engineering and architectural firm the school board hired to analyze district schools, also spoke at the meeting to say that his firm had released its report today about the state of the two elementary schools’ boilers, electrical systems, windows and ventilators. The report includes estimations for renovation costs.
It will be posted on the district Web site at www.mv.org.
The board has to hold a public hearing at least 90 days before making any decision to close a school, according to school code.
Doe$ $crooge ever receive the the me$$age from the three gho$t$? Or were the dream$ $imply returned to $ender, addre$$ unknown?
The children of Morri$ville are only dollar $ign$ to the Emperor Pre$ident. They are $imply another commodity to be traded, bought, and $old.
The Emperor'$ opening $tatement recounting all the $aving$ he ha$ $upplied $howed much more that dollar$ and cent$ It $howed u$ an empty void. How $ad.
Voter$: We got what we paid for. Enjoy the $aving$.
Board plans hearing to close Reiter
Angry parents packed the meeting room to oppose the move. “Our community’s children are not numbers,” said one.
By MANASEE WAGH
After a 25-minute-late start and much heated finger-pointing, the Morrisville School Board voted Wednesday night to advertise for a public hearing to close M.R. Reiter Elementary School.
The hearing would be set for Wednesday, Jan. 14. Board members Robin Reithmeyer, Gloria Heater and Joseph Kemp voted against the advertisement. Board member Al Radosti was absent.
At least 150 residents packed the meeting room, many of them parents of elementary schoolchildren.
Prior to the vote, the board heard public comment from nearly 20 different borough residents, the majority of whom were angry and emotional about the move toward closing the school without determining where to place its more than 250 students safely.
“If these were your children, would you even consider this option?” elementary PTO President Robin Tohm asked the board.
She broke down in tears as she thanked the district staff and administrators for smoothly transitioning Reiter students to alternative locations temporarily after a late night explosion in Reiter’s furnace room blew out windows in the building on Dec. 13.
From Dec. 17 until at least Jan. 5, Reiter students are to attend class at alternative district locations, including the Morrisville YMCA, the Middle/Senior High School and Grandview Elementary School.
Parents expressed anger over board President William Hellmann’s statement at the start of the meeting outlining how much the current board is saving the borough in tax money through canceling last year’s planned construction of a new, $30 million consolidated school for all grades.
They were also upset about Hellmann’s recent e-mail exchanges with other board members in which he called the deteriorating Reiter a “rat trap” that is consuming borough funds for continued maintenance. Hellmann’s e-mail suggested putting all 400-plus elementary school students from Reiter and Grandview into the middle/senior high school.
“Our community’s children are not numbers,” said parent Damon Miller. “You can’t just shuffle them around.”
Putting all grades into the high school would be extremely difficult, since that building caters to older students’ needs, the administration has said.
In case students cannot return to Reiter during the rest of this school year because of safety concerns, they would be set up in modular units at Grandview, said Elizabeth Yonson, district superintendent. The estimated cost of those units could be $108,000, said administrators.
For an hour before the vote to hold a public hearing, board members argued loudly among themselves about what they did or did not do toward fixing the districts’ three schools this past year. Shouts and comments against the board majority and applause for those who spoke against the board president punctuated their arguments.
Board member Gloria Heater accused Hellmann of trying to get some board members to come to a vote about the future of the schools behind other board members’ backs.
At that, some residents yelled at Hellmann, “Resign now!”
A representative from Vitetta, the engineering and architectural firm the school board hired to analyze district schools, also spoke at the meeting to say that his firm had released its report today about the state of the two elementary schools’ boilers, electrical systems, windows and ventilators. The report includes estimations for renovation costs.
It will be posted on the district Web site at www.mv.org.
The board has to hold a public hearing at least 90 days before making any decision to close a school, according to school code.
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