Board decides on priciest plan of 3

Estimates put levy costs at $106 for a $100,000 home.
By JOHN W. GOODWIN JR.
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
BOARDMAN -- School officials have determined how much it will cost to make improvements to the seven district buildings and now must figure how large of a levy to place on the November ballot.
Board of education members decided to choose one of three lists of potential projects to be completed:
The first list of projects would cost the district about $35.8 million. The second list, which includes all projects on the first list and some additional items, would cost about $41.7 million. The third list of projects, including all items on the other lists and a few extras, would cost about $51.6 million.
Board members unanimously decided to go with the $51.6 million plan Friday.
"This is step one, passing this resolution of necessity. Step two is to work with the county auditor to determine how many mills will generate that amount," said schools Superintendent Frank Lazzeri.
Lazzeri said school officials should know the exact millage in a matter of days, but board members estimate it to be about 3.46 mills. The duration of the levy also has not been determined.
The 3.46 mills, according to preliminary information supplied by board members, will cost the owner of a $100,000 home about $106 annually.
Varying opinions
Board member Mark Fulks said the $51.6 million project would be great for the district, but might be a little too costly for taxpayers. He asked board members what could be eliminated from the planned improvements to bring the cost down.
"My greatest concern is that we are asking for a great deal of money in a very difficult time," he said. "I am afraid we may be left out there all by ourselves."
The least expensive plan would eliminate air conditioning upgrades in district buildings. Fulks, however, said he is not in favor of cutting those improvements.
Most board members were in favor of sticking to the all-inclusive more expensive plan for renovations. Board members Kimberly Poma, Kenneth Beraduce and Niklaus Amstutz all said the improvements should be done now instead of the board asking taxpayers for additional funds to make the improvements later.
"I feel confident that the voters will come out in support," said Amstutz. "I feel very confident in the 3.5-mill figure."
For the four elementary schools, the plan includes replacing parts of the ceiling; expanding the size of kindergarten rooms; making improvements to classrooms, a cafeteria and corridors; and adding a new facade.
For the two middle schools, improvements include replacing old hall lockers; revamping the electrical and plumbing work; and replacing some gym doors.
For Boardman High School, improvements include building a 38,000-square-foot auxiliary gym; upgrading the stadium; and making various window replacements.
jgoodwin@vindy.com