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Ord school bond creates controversy




(11/02/2009) By Anthony Pura - In just more than a week Ord high school could be given the go ahead for renovations and a new addition. That is if voters approve a $9.8 million bond proposal. School officials said now is the time for the improvements, but opponents are saying not so fast.

If all goes according to plan, a parking lot and grass area will be the site of a new high school gym. It is a place to host more sporting events and activities.

"It is a space problem, as far as the number of facilities from the number of programs," said Superintendent Max Kroger.

Part of the high school was built in 1928 and now, much of it is not meeting building codes including the library and cafeteria.

"It is a little dangerous because those pipes are 80 years old ready to burst. They are wearing thin and plugging up. We have got to do something about it," said Kroger.

That is one part of the $9.8 million proposal that both sides agree on.

"No one is arguing with that. When it comes to the safety of our kids, everybody is in favor," Larry Koelling said.

But when it comes to the second part of the plan a new gym that some say is too expensive, too extravagant.

"There was only one architect, we feel that it should have been taken out on bids and there actually should have been more public input," said Koelling.

Another disagreement is the cost. The bond would increase property taxes by about $19.40 a year on a $100 evaluation.

Tax payers are already paying a ten cent levy for a building fund.
If voters approve the new bond the current one would be reduced to just 2 cents per $100,000 evaluation.

But opponents are skeptical. They said the proposal stands for increases...period.

"People are passionate about it, but it is going to work out just fine," said Kroger.

With both sides confident in their chances, they are leaving it to the voters.

The debate has gotten heated around town. Just last week an opponent of the proposal was allegedly assaulted after a town hall meeting.

Both sides said that was an isolated incident and they believe the community is able to disagree on the issue civilly.

Attached Files: 1102ord.jpg 


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