Inspections may cost Mathews more money

STAFF REPORT

VIENNA — A state inspection requirement and the expiration of an agreement with First Energy could cost Mathews School District an additional $33,000 from its general fund.

Superintendent Lee Seiple told the board of education Wednesday that a state law requiring inspection for radon gas in every district building is expected to cost $20,000. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency describes radon as a cancer-causing natural radioactive gas that accumulates in buildings.

Discussions are being held with state officials about the issue.

The other issue stems from contract negotiations with First Energy. Treasurer Teri Andrika said Mathews and other school districts had a joint agreement with the utility for reduced rates, but the program, Ohio School Council Energy for Education, has lapsed and the two sides have been unable to work out a new contract.

“We’re still hoping some agreement can be reached,” Andrika said, “but if not, it will cost us the extra money.” In other action, the board approved a one-year contract with the Ohio Association of Public School Employees representing 43 cafeteria workers, bus drivers, secretaries, maintenance and custodial workers. The agreement, which had been reached late last year, contains a 1.75-percent increase, the same as that negotiated by the district’s teachers last summer.

The board also passed a resolution naming Mathews a “special needs district.” State law requires the resolution by Jan. 20 so a bond issue can be submitted to voters in the May primary. The board has had public meetings on school improvements, but has yet to decide if an issue will be placed on the ballot.

In its annual reorganization, Dr. Kenneth Wallace was voted board president and Roy Pratt, vice president.