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PUBLIC
BOARD MEETING MINUTES (WORK SESSION FOLLOWED BYPUBLIC MEETING)
NESHAMINY BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
August 19, 2003
The
Neshaminy Board of School Directors met in public session on August 19,
2003, in the Board Room
of the District Offices, Maple Point Middle School.
The following persons were in attendance:
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BOARD MEMBERS:
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ADMINISTRATORS:
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Mrs.
June R. Bostwick, President
Mrs. Kimberly A. Jowett, Vice-President* |
Mr.
P. Howard Wilson
Dr. Raymond J. Boccuti |
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Mrs.
Yvonne V. Butville
Ms. Carol A. Drioli
Mr. Richard M. Eccles
Mr. Steven E. Schoenstadt |
Mr.
Joseph V. Paradise
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Mr.
Michael A. Soifer**
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Dr.
William H. Spitz
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Mr.
Edward T. Stack
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OTHERS:
Approximately 85 persons from the public, staff and press
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SECRETARY:
Mrs. Anita E. Walls
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SOLICITOR:
Thomas J. Profy, III, Esquire |
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*arrived
at meeting 7:10 p.m.
**arrived at meeting 7:30 p.m. |
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l.
Call to Order
Mrs.
Bostwick called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
2.
Pledge of Allegiance
Mrs.
Bostwick requested those in attendance join in the salute to the flag.
3.
Public Comment
Mrs.
Bostwick announced that public comment at a Work Session allows for a two
minute comment by each speaker and public comment would take place for
twenty minutes.
Mr.
Anthony Russo, Feasterville, PA advised that the public does not want a
new school. The community
cannot afford a new school. Mr.
Russo advised that all of this country�s money is overseas.
Mr. Russo stated that the high school should be repaired just like
individuals are doing with their homes.
Mr.
William O�Connor, Langhorne, PA stated the following:
�It appears that all of you
believe that constructing a new high school would be the best use of our
tax dollars. And despite what
the local newspaper has said about your methods, you are to be applauded
for the manner in which you presented these plans to the public.
The problem is you weren�t prepared for the fallout.
You allowed policies and emotion to overshadow fact-based
decision-making and compassion. You became less concerned with doing what is right.
Let me offer you a quote from
Abraham Lincoln: �I am for
those means which will give the greatest good to the greatest number.�
I don�t think any of you
can deny that building a new high school would serve the greatest number
both educationally and financially. But
I don�t think you�ve considered every consequence of not putting this
District�s resources towards a new high school.
When all this is over, the
opposing sides will return to their regularly scheduled lives.
For those who support new construction, they will be returning to
running PTO Boards, and Spring Fairs and the concession stands at football
games. These people are the
very fabric that makes those aging buildings more than just schools.
But if we won�t invest our energy and resources in their
children�s schools any longer, will they?
And what of our children? Don�t we want our children to have a great education that
propels them onto college and better careers so that they will come back
to live here to raise their families?
Do you think our children will want their children to set foot in a
place like that? Will the
Neshaminy legacy continue to attract people to our community?
If you don�t address this
issue now, eventually somebody down the road will have to deal
with it. And the very
people who oppose new construction now will be forced in another ten or so
years to build a new school, and it will cost far in excess of $100
Million AND with higher interest rates.
These very people will want to hold someone responsible and they
will blame you.
The future of the Neshaminy
School District is being charted right now.
And as the many examples around us show, school districts either
continue to flourish or they decay. There
really isn�t any middle ground. Which
path will you choose for our community?
Do the right thing! Act now, and start building for tomorrow!�
Mr.
Bill Linenberg, Langhorne, PA, advised that he is 85 years old and his
wife is 16 years younger. Mr.
Linneberg is aware of what the newspapers have reported regarding the high
school issue. Mr. Linenberg
noted that one member of the board is afraid of the Flowers Mill vote.
Mr. Linenberg noted that Flowers Mill is just a small portion of
the entire district. Mr.
Linenberg stated not to be afraid that Flowers Mill would vote against a
new high school. The entire
area is benefiting by the Flowers Mill taxes.
The residents of Flowers Mill do not have any children, and they
are not against good schools. If
the parents are good the students will learn in the worst type of
condition.
Mrs.
Martha Lindner, Langhorne, PA, noted that she has played a large part in
getting many of the board members elected.
Mrs. Lindner never thought that she would be standing before the
Board at a meeting where she would consider the Board a “runaway
Board.” Mrs. Lindner stated that some members of this Board do not
want to listen to the people. The
community does not want to pay for a brand new high school. There is more then one option to solve this district’s
problem at the high school. Mrs.
Lindner noted that there are reconstruction and renovation options. Mrs. Lindner noted that she is not speaking about repairs or
bandaids. Mrs. Lindner is
speaking about a full renovation. Mrs.
Lindner stated that it does not need to include the 9th grade
which would only increase the absolute cost of whatever is done. Mrs. Lindner stated: “We
can make our school look beautiful.”
Mrs. Lindner noted that it can be done reasonably and the district
does not have to throw out what it has.
Listen to the community. There
was a vote. Mrs. Lindner
requested the Board to stop the games, stop the survey and save $50,000,
stop the Plancons going to the Department of Education, and stop wasting
money on an architect in order to create more plans for the next step.
Mrs. Lindner noted that the Board coming in can still stop this
plan.
Mrs.
Marianne O’Connor, Langhorne, PA, noted that she understood that the job
of the Board was to do what was in the best interest of the community.
Mrs. O’Connor recalls a Board member stating that even though a
new high school is the best decision, they would not vote for the new high
school. Although important
decisions may not be popular with some, they need to be made.
In addressing renovation Mrs. O’Connor would not want any of her
children near the high school when renovations take place.
It will be impossible to contain the dust and debris that will
occur, and especially the asbestos. Mrs.
O’Connor questioned whether the district can pass up the low interest
rates. Mrs. O’Connor noted
that renovation will last about 15 years.
Mrs. O’Connor stated that the Board cannot act upon who yells the
loudest, but what is best for the students, community and future.
Mr.
Clem Piscitelli, Langhorne, PA advised that he forwarded a fax to the
Superintendent on August 13, 2003. The
fax stated: “I am truly
upset and truly disappointed that upon visiting the Administration
building on Monday, August 11, 2003, that the flag was not displayed.
With the minimum of at least one United States soldier being killed
in Iraq every day and several more wounded shouldn’t the Neshaminy
School District honor and respect our military by flying the flag every
day and also at every school building.
Also, the flag base at the building is rusting away.
I have made several requests over the last two plus years to get
this painted. Would you call
me to discuss the flag.” Mr.
Piscitelli noted that he has not received a response.
Mr.
Piscitelli was disappointed to see that Lower Southampton attendance did
not receive a good grade and that out of five grades at the high school
there was a warning issued for group participation and attendance.
Mr. Piscitelli hopes that the numbers that were sent in by whomever
is responsible for same were the correct numbers.
Mr. Piscitelli further noted that he is for a referendum.
Mr.
Howard Lindner, Langhorne, PA, stated that over a year ago he told Board
members that if you do not vote for a referendum you would not be
re-elected. The last primary
was the beginning. The focus
is referendum. The Courier
Times has come out with editorials stating the same thing.
With a project of this magnitude the people should have a voice.
There are some people in this building pushing for a new school.
Mr. Lindner noted that he spent 34 years in that building.
There is nothing wrong with the school structurally.
New electrical, new heating may be needed, but there is nothing
wrong with the school structurally. The
tradition is the people who built this community.
The people who pay the taxes.
The people whose sons and daughters participated in the programs at
Neshaminy are being chased away. They
cannot afford to pay the tax increase.
Mr. Lindner noted that the people who made this community want to
remain here. Mr. Lindner
noted that the majority is against a new high school or want a referendum.
Mr. Lindner repeated once again: “Give me good teachers.”
Mr.
Charles Lauble, Langhorne, PA, stated that a survey question should ask:
“Does the community have faith that this Board is going to do the right
thing?” Parents and
taxpayers should be given the opportunity to feed back to the school what
they think about the performance and education the children are receiving.
Mr. Lauble is doing a research project for the historic
association. Mr. Thomas
stated that a replica of an old school should be built so the students
receive a perspective.
Mrs.
Rosalind Booth, Levittown, PA, stated that she is a graduate of Neshaminy
High School, her daughter graduated from the high school and her son will
be attending the high school next year.
Mrs. Booth is clearly against a new school building.
Mrs. Booth noted that her home was not well maintained.
Mrs. Booth has spent the last twenty years fixing her home.
Mrs. Booth is concerned that the children are not learning that the
importance is to maintain things. The
adults have neglected to take care of the high school.
Mrs. Booth noted that people in the area could help with
refurbishing the building and it does not need to take place all at once. Mrs. Booth would like to see that the children are taught to
take care of something that is broken down.
They will need this life lesson when they move into their own
homes. Teach our children
more than when it is broken down get a new one.
Mrs.
Donna Esposito, Langhorne, PA, stated that she voted in the May primary,
but the only candidate running was a pro-referendum candidate in her
region. Mrs. Esposito chose
not to vote for a school board candidate in the primary.
Mrs. Esposito noted that the school Board is elected to make
decisions that are in the best interest of the community.
Their job is to get the information from the experts, analyze the
data and make a long term, cost effective decision based on that
information. That decision
should not be passed to an uninformed, misinformed, or less informed
public. According to the Courier Times all Board members have come to
a conclusion regarding the high school.
Mrs. Esposito urged the Board to do their job, be accountable and
stick with their decision. Mrs.
Esposito cannot understand how a Board member can believe in something and
then vote against same. Mrs.
Esposito applauds those members of the Board that have made an intelligent
decision and have stayed with same. Mrs.
Esposito noted that they are doing their job and are being responsible
Board members. Mrs. Esposito
feels that building a new high school will be the most efficient and long
term, cost effective route to go. Mrs.
Esposito noted that is her non-professional opinion.
Mr.
Sal Esposito, Langhorne, PA, noted that he has been living in Neshaminy
School District for seventeen years.
Mr. Esposito noted that he is a mechanical engineer and has been
practicing his profession for over twenty years.
Mr. Esposito noted that his training as a mechanical engineer does
not allow him to make a decision regarding building a new high school
without all the facts in front of him.
It disturbs Mr. Esposito to hear all this discussion regarding
referendum. The public is being asked to render a decision on something
that they are not qualified to make a decision about. Mr. Esposito does not want to show any disrespect to the
public, however, they simply are not trained to make that type of
decision. Mr. Esposito was
concerned that someone made a statement earlier that there is nothing
wrong structurally with the school. Is
that person a structural engineer? Mr.
Esposito feels that everyone is entitled to an opinion, however, it is
just that, an opinion. Mr. Esposito is also concerned about taxes, but that does not
change the fact that the Board was elected to make a good decision on
behalf of the public. Mr.
Esposito noted that this is not a democracy, but it is a representative
government. The Board is
elected to make informed decisions on behalf of the public.
This requires engaging the appropriate experts, analyze the data,
do a financial analysis and make the decision.
Mrs.
Lisa Pflaumer, Middletown Township, noted that she has been out on the
streets, day in and day out. The
biggest issue in the community is taxes.
Mrs. Pflaumer believes it is a shame that the majority of this
Board does not want to understand and acknowledge that the people have
spoken regarding the issue of the high school.
The people want a referendum on the issue.
That is why this past May the public selected candidates who were
for a referendum. This is an
overwhelming issue for this community, not just Middletown Township, but
everyone in this school district. Mrs.
Pflaumer noted that a survey will only waste additional taxpayer dollars. The same message will be received in the end, they want to
decide. Mrs. Pflaumer stated
let the public decide to build a new school.
The Board will then have the backing of the people.
Let them decide whether they just want renovations or just maintain
the current building that has not been maintained for the past couple of
decades. This Board and
previous Boards have not taken into consideration the maintenance aspects
of the high school.
Mr.
Jasper Caro, Middletown Township, is an engineer and attorney.
Mr. Caro is running for election in Middletown Township.
Mr. Caro noted that he is not an expert in the fields of
rebuilding, renovations and new construction, however, he reported that he
has been on every street in Middletown Township and the message that he
brings to the Board is that the taxes are overburdening the citizens.
Mr. Caro would like the Board to keep that in mind when they are
making their decisions.
4.
Announcements
No
announcements.
5.
Items for Discussion
(a)
Computers
for Food Services
Mr.
Wilson advised Board members that the computers in the Food Services
division are more then ten years old.
Windows 95 software is still being used.
The Food Services division has come up with a concept that would
enable the public to charge their child’s lunches online using Visa,
Mastercard, etc. This would
require the purchase of new computers and a new server.
This would be an attempt to market their foods on an increasing
basis. Mr. Wilson noted that
cost would be approximately $10,000.
Mr. Wilson realizes that the Food Services Department is on their
own and that no money is to come from the General Fund for benefits,
capital improvements, etc.
Mr.
Wilson requested the Board for guidance.
Mr. Wilson advised that the district could purchase the items from
the General Fund and support the Food Services Department.
Mr.
Schoenstadt noted that a significantly large amount of money was taken
from Food Services last year for bonuses which the Board had not approved
at any time. The Board has an
obligation, since the funds were taken from Food Services, to support the
Food Services as an independent operation and provide what is necessary to
keep it going. The Food
Services would have had the funds in the reserve account.
Mr. Schoenstadt would also like to see justification why it is not
being generated within the Food Services Department.
Mr. Schoenstadt would like the previous Administration to explain
why those bonuses were paid, when the Board never authorized and never
approved them.
Mr.
Wilson noted that the district could purchase the equipment necessary from
Dell.
Mrs.
Drioli noted that previous Food Services administration have been able to
show a profit because they did not reinvest in themselves. There has been no updating on the computer system.
Mrs. Drioli feels that it is in the best interest of the district
to maintain Food Services. Mrs. Drioli would like to see the systems upgraded.
Mr.
Paradise advised the Board that Food Services up until a few years ago had
very little computerization. Mr.
Paradise noted that the Food Services equipment was given to them when
equipment in other parts of the district was being upgraded. Old machines were refurbished and Food Services used them.
Mr. Paradise noted that over the course of the last year, sales
have been down. Mr. Paradise
noted that it is basic marketing. It must become easier for people to give you money.
Parents could go onto the website and charge their child’s
lunches. In order to provide
this type of service, newer equipment is necessary.
Mr.
Profy arrived at 7:35 p.m.
Mr.
Eccles noted that the Food Services Department is to be self sufficient
and Mr. Eccles inquired as to next years funds.
Mr. Paradise noted that he is meeting with the director to discuss
the prior two years and review all the details to come up with a plan.
Mr. Paradise noted that there is no projected income at this point
for Food Services for the upcoming year.
Mr. Paradise noted that this is a business in which the
governmental entity controls the number of customers, controls the access
to the customers, the type of food that is bought, etc.
Mr. Paradise assured Board members that there will be a plan in
place to improve the bottom line.
Mr.
Eccles suggested that the district lend the Food Services Department the
amount of $10,000.
Dr.
Spitz noted that the Food Services Department does not have sufficient
flexibility to be a profit making business as other businesses would have.
The district tells them their prices and restrictions are placed
upon them. Dr. Spitz would
like to see increased flexibility for the Food Services Department in
order that they can operate as a stand alone operation.
Ms.
Drioli noted that this Board has in the past allowed the Food Services
Department some grace. The
people working within Food Services are the very same people who are
paying taxes in this District. Ms.
Drioli feels that this is a good thing and if the Department needs help
this district should be there so it does not fail.
Mr.
Soifer felt that an obligatory note, as Mr. Eccles suggested would be a
good way to proceed with this situation.
Mr. Wilson thanked the Board for their direction.
6.
Items for Approval
a)
Overnight Trips
Trip
information distributed for the following trips was self-explanatory:
i)
Debate
Club/Dramatics Club Trip – Neshaminy High School, Susquehanna
University, March 25-27, 2004
ii)
Foreign Language Trip
– Neshaminy High School, Quebec – March 24 – 28, 2004
iii)
Instrumental Music
Adjudication Trip – Neshaminy High School, Anaheim,
California
– April 15 –20, 2004
iv)
Junior Class Trip –
Neshaminy High School, Baltimore, Washington and
Williamsburg
– April 24- 26, 2004
v)
History Club Trip –
Neshaminy High School, Washington, DC and Annapolis,
Baltimore
– May 21-23, 2004
Mrs.
Butville inquired whether the people involved with these trips have an
understanding that the trip could possibly be canceled due to some
unforeseen reason. Mr. Wilson
noted that if there is a crisis or national emergency, that the district
many not be able to obtain all the money back.
The district will do everything that it can to work with the
sponsor to receive the return of all monies.
Mr. Wilson noted that parents will be requested to execute a form
to that effect.
There
was Board consensus for the five trips.
b)
Student/Advisor Attendance at PASA/PSBA Conference – October
22-24, 2003
There
was Board consensus and a Board motion will follow.
c)
Act
34 Resolution
Mr.
Wilson explained that in June the Board adopted a resolution to schedule
and hold an Act 34 Hearing on September 9, 2003.
Mr. Wilson noted that the motion needed to contain the construction
costs, etc. This evening
another motion will be adopted which will contain dollar amounts.
There
was Board consensus and a Board motion will follow.
d)
Approval
of Bid/s
Mr.
Paradise reviewed the following bids:
Bid No.
04-16 – Dishwasher
Bid
Amount: $10,720.00
The
bid is for a dishwasher at Poquessing Middle School.
Bid No.
04-17 – Stationery Supplies
Bid
Amount: $40,000.00
The
bid is for miscellaneous office supplies purchased throughout the school
year as needs arise. The
discount is based on the United Stationers catalog which is used by many
retailers in our portion of the country.
Bid No.
04-18 – Musical Instruments
Bid
Amount: $19,492.51
The
bid is for musical instruments and accessories for K-12 instruction
throughout the district.
The
three bids will be presented for approval at the Public Meeting portion
this evening.
7.
Items for Information
a)
Summer School 2003
Dr.
Boccuti advised that the summer programs have been completed and a handout
was supplied to Board members. Dr.
Boccuti noted that the programs are self sufficient and the district can
expect a profit to be made by the programs, even though invoices are still
being received.
b)
PSBA
Legislative Platform
Mrs.
Butville explained that this proposal is being completed in response to
the legislators not having their budget completed on time.
The district is required by school law to pass a budget by the end
of June. The district is
mandated to reopen their budget after the legislators pass their budget to
account for the money given by them to the districts.
The proposal was to be received by PSBA by August 15, 2003;
however, if the Board passes same this evening it can be faxed tomorrow.
PSBA
lobbies the legislators in many different areas, i.e transportation,
governance, special education, etc. This
is just another proposal that would help school districts with their
future budgets and encourage the legislators to pass their budget on time,
so that school districts do not have to reopen their budgets.
There
was Board consensus to provide the proposal to PSBA.
8.
Superintendent’s Report
a) Staff
Achieving Tenure
A handout
was provided to Board members. Mr.
Wilson noted that eight individuals were granted tenure.
9. Committee
Reports
a)
Board Policies
Mrs.
Butville advised that the Board Policies Committee has not met, however,
Mr. Marotto was given the directive to review all of the policies
throughout this year and update each one.
Policies up to the 500 section have been reviewed.
Mr. Profy reviewed Policy #520 and the appropriate changes were
made and approved.
b)
Education Foundation
Dr.
Spitz reported that a meeting took place last week and plans were being
made for the Fall Fundraiser.
c)
Finance/Facilities
Mr. Soifer
reported that no meetings have taken place.
d) IU Board
No report.
e)
Educational Development
Dr. Spitz reported that no
meeting has taken place, however, this year a full agenda is scheduled
including review of PSSA scores, middle school program review, AE program
review, etc.
f)
Technical School
Mrs.
Butville advised that the Support Staff contract has been reached.
g)
Technology
No report.
10.
Future Topics
Pride
and Promise Campaign resolutions.
11.
Agenda Development
Public
meeting will follow.
12.
Correspondence
Mrs.
Walls advised that there was no correspondence.
13.
Other Board Business
Mrs.
Bostwick announced that the Tuesday, September 16, 2003, meeting will be
canceled. The next public
board meeting will take place Tuesday, September 23, 2003.
14.
Adjournment of Meeting
Mrs.
Bostwick moved that this portion of the meeting be adjourned and Dr. Spitz
seconded the motion. The
Board unanimously approved the motion.
Mrs. Bostwick adjourned the meeting at 8:00 p.m.
PUBLIC MEETING
Call to Order
Mrs. Bostwick called the Public
meeting to order at 8:00 p.m.
Approval of Minutes
Upon motion of Mr. Schoenstadt and
seconded by Mr. Soifer the Board unanimously approved the minutes of the
June 26, 2003 Public Meeting.
Approval of Treasurer’s Report, Bills for Payment,
Investments, and Exonerations of Personal and Per Capita Tax
– Mr. Paradise presented the following for approval:
·
June, 2003 and July, 2003 Treasurer’s Report, subject to
audit
·
Bills for payment Check Register –
June, 2003 and July, 2003
·
Two Escrow Funds and One Investment
Fund
·
No Budget Transfers
·
No Personal and per capita tax
exonerations for June, 2003 and July, 2003
Mr. Soifer
moved the June, 2003 and July, 2003 Treasurer’s Report be approved,
subject to audit, and the June, 2003 bills for payment and July, 2003
bills for payment be approved. Mr.
Stack seconded the motion.
The Board
approved the Treasurer’s Reports, subject to audit, and bills for
payment by a vote of eight ayes and one nay (Dr. Spitz).
Approval of Bids
Mr. Paradise presented the
following bids for approval:
Bid No. 04-16 Dishwasher (re-Bid)
Bid Amount:
$10,720.00
The bid is
for a dishwasher at Poquessing Middle School.
Bid No. 04-17 Stationery Supplies
Bid Amount:
$40,000.00
The bid is
for miscellaneous office supplies purchased throughout the school year as
needs arise. The discount is
based on the United Stationers catalog which is used by many retailers in
our portion of the country.
Bid No. 04-18 Musical Instruments
Bid Amount:
$19,492. 51
The bid is
for musical instruments and accessories for K-12 instruction throughout
the district.
Mr. Soifer
moved the two bids be approved and Mr. Stack seconded the motion.
The Board
unanimously approved the three bids.
Certified and Support Personnel Actions
Mr. Wilson presented the following
for approval:
·
Elections – Certified Personnel
·
Resignations and Leaves of Absence –
Certified Personnel
·
Elections – Support Personnel
·
Resignations and Leaves of Absence –
Support Personnel
·
Addendum of Elections of Certified
Personnel
·
Addendum to Resignation/Leaves of
Certified Personnel
Mr. Wilson
announced that the new high school principal is Mr. Alexander Menio.
Mr. Wilson
advised that Mr. Wyatt and Mr. Marotto evaluated the long term substitutes
and ranked them in a numerical order so that when openings occurred the
district would be selecting the best individuals.
Mr. Wilson
recommended the approval of the personnel report for certified and support
personnel.
Mrs.
Butville moved the personnel actions be approved.
Mr. Stack seconded the motion.
The Board
unanimously approved the Certified and Support Personnel actions.
Extra –Curricular Staff and Salaries Report
Motion: Addendum to Superintendent’s Contract
Mrs. Butville presented the following
motion:
WHEREAS,
the Neshaminy Board of School Directors met in
executive session on July 9, 2003 to discuss personnel issues, and
WHEREAS,
the Personnel Report reflects some of these discussions.
NOW,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Addendum to
the Superintendent’s Contract as attached is approved.
Mr.
Schoenstadt seconded the motion.
The Board
unanimously approved the motion.
Motion: Student/Advisor
Attendance at PASA/PSBA Conference
Ms. Drioli presented the following
motion:
WHEREAS,
the Pennsylvania School Boards Association and the Neshaminy Board of
School Directors encourage student delegates and their advisor to
participate in the workshops and activities of the annual PASA/PSBA
Conference; and
WHEREAS,
in the past it was found that student participation in the conference
benefited the local student government program and helped students to
understand the purpose and activities of a Board of School Directors.
NOW,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that two students and
their advisor are authorized to attend the 2003 PASA/PSBA Conference to be
held in Hershey, Pennsylvania from October 22-24, 2003, and that related
conference fees and costs be paid by the District.
Mrs.
Butville seconded the motion.
The Board
unanimously approved the motion.
Motion: Act
34 Resolution
Mrs. Jowett
presented the following motion:
RESOLUTON
The
Board of School Directors of the school district hereby adopts a maximum
project cost of $92,697,981 (from Plancon D03, line I) and a maximum
building construction cost of up to $68,539,500 (from Plancon D20, line C)
for the Neshaminy High School project.
The Board of Directors of the
school district hereby authorizes and directs a public hearing to be held
on September 9, 2003, at 6 p.m. at the Neshaminy School District
Administrative Offices at the Maple Point Auditorium, 2250 Langhorne
Yardley Road, to provide information to the residents of the school
district with respect to the Project.
The secretary of the school district is hereby authorized and
directed to cause a notice of such public hearing to be published once in
the local newspaper, such publication to appear on August 20, 2003.
The
Board of School Directors of the school district hereby authorizes and
directs that a description of the Project be prepared and made available
to the public no later than August 20, 2003, and that such description be
mailed to the news media for the release no later than August 26, 2003.
The
Board of School Directors of the school district hereby authorizes and
directs the proper officers of the school district to submit to the
Pennsylvania Department of Education (the “Department”) a certified
copy of this Resolution, together with a copy of the minutes or transcript
of the aforementioned public hearing, a proof of publication of the notice
thereof and a complete description of the Project, all as required by Act
34 of l973 of the Pennsylvania General Assembly, as well as any other
documents required by the Department in connection therewith.
Mr. Stack
seconded the motion.
Mr. Eccles
again asked the Board to stop all action.
Mr. Eccles advised that he cannot vote in favor of same.
Mrs.
Bostwick requested a roll call vote on the Act 34 Resolution.
The Board approved the motion by a vote of seven ayes (Mrs.
Bostwick, Mrs. Butville, Mrs. Jowett, Mr. Schoenstadt, Mr. Soifer, Dr.
Spitz, Mr. Stack) and two nays (Ms. Drioli and Mr. Eccles).
Mrs.
Bostwick advised that in order to participate in the Act 34 Hearing you
must submit to the Board Secretary, Mrs. Walls, in writing, on or before
10:00 a.m. on September 9, 2003, your name, your address and the subject
matter you wish to discuss. The
public will also have until October 10, 2003 to submit further information
to the Board and State.
Mr. Profy
advised that a resident of the school district can gain agenda time for
the purpose of discussing the proposed project by submitting a written
request no later then September 9, 2003, at l0:00 a.m.
Such request can be mailed to the secretary, including the name and
address of the person submitting the request and a statement of the topic
to be presented.
Mr. Eccles
inquired whether the Act 34 Hearing can supersede any Board motions on the
number of people that can speak at the hearing.
Mr. Profy
advised that agenda time shall be limited as determined by the school
district. This Board will set
the rules which will govern the amount of time which will be devoted to an
individual for comment at the time of the hearing.
Dr. Spitz
inquired whether any decisions have been made regarding the amount of time
to be spent on each speaker.
Ms. Drioli
suggested that the hearing begin at 6:00 p.m.
Mr. Eccles
feels that everyone should have the opportunity to speak.
Mr. Profy
read the notice approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education: “Such requests may be mailed to the undersigned, shall
include the name and address of the person submitting the request and a
statement of the topic to be presented.”
Mr. Profy
advised that the public also has the right to submit a written statement,
either at the hearing, mailing it to the district so it is incorporated
into the record, and the right is available through October 10, 2003.
Mr. Wilson
requested as the written submissions are received they be numbered.
Ms. Drioli prevailed upon the public that if she is expected to
stay until 2:00 a.m. that the first speaker also remains at the hearing
until 2:00 a.m.
Dr. Spitz
agrees in principal that everyone should have the opportunity to speak,
however, a limit may need to be set to make it reasonable.
Dr. Spitz hopes that all Board members will receive a copy of the
written statements received by the district.
Mr. Profy
advised that this will be an official hearing and a transcript will be
taken by an official court reporter.
Mr. Stack
inquired when the next Work Session will take place since the Board has an
obligation to respond to the Act 34 hearing results and what the opinion
of the Board is. Mr. Profy
advised that there will be a thirty day period after the closing of the
hearing for persons to submit written statements.
The Board cannot take action or submit Plancon D to the state prior
to that time. The state will
not accept it until after October 10, 2003.
Mr. Stack noted that he is not referring to the Plancon process,
however, the bond process. The
Board has an obligation to address outstanding debts that need to be
funded by the district. Mr.
Stack is suggesting that the Board needs to address the issue of bonds.
Mr. Soifer
noted that all the information needs to be reviewed before any decisions
can be made regarding bonds.
Discussion
ensued amongst Board members regarding future meeting dates.
Ms. Drioli
questioned whether there is a shelf life to the Act 34 Hearing.
Mr. Profy advised that the Board cannot act before the 31st
day after September 9, 2003. Mr.
Profy advised that he would research the duration period.
Mr. Profy
advised that there will be reasonable time constraints based upon the
numbers incorporated into the Plancon documents and estimated construction
costs. Mr. Profy advised, however, that it would not preclude the
Board from having discussions regarding bonds.
The Board may wish to establish some general parameters within
which to work, but the specificity will be determined in the future.
Mr.
Schoenstadt suggested that if at the Work Session on the 16th
of September the board discusses the bonds and sets a firm date based on
approval of the Act 34 hearing, the day after approval if the Board has
identified the needs for the bonds the district could actually start
approval of selling the bonds the following day.
If at the meeting on the 16th there are five board
members that would like to proceed, the Board can move ahead in that
regard. The Board understands
the other state requirements.
Mr. Eccles
is concerned about the quick movement of these meetings.
Ms. Drioli
stated that there is a group of people who say they have a better option,
they have a better alternative. If
the Board moves forward at this time they will come in and stop this which
will cost the district money or they will piggyback on the decisions that
have been made and they will come in and say they do not want to cost the
district any money and go along with same.
Ms. Drioli is very anxious to hear some of the alternatives that
the new Board members have to offer.
Motion:
Taxpayer Survey and Analysis Rescind
Mr.
Schoenstadt presented the following motion:
WHEREAS,
Neshaminy Board of School Directors did on June 26, 2003 adopt a
Resolution authorizing a survey to be made to obtain the opinions of
taxpayers of the School District concerning the proposed building plans
for Neshaminy High School and authorizing the engagement of the services
of Sales Qualifiers, a CKC Enterprises Ltd Company, Cleveland, Ohio to
oversee the survey project at a cost not to exceed $50,000; and
WHEREAS,
the Board has reconsidered the feasibility of performing the survey and
the advisability of expending up to $50,000 to obtain the above described
survey.
NOW,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Neshaminy
Board of School Directors rescinds the Resolution adopted June 26, 2003
authorizing the survey and the engagement of the services of Sales
Qualifiers, a CKC Enterprises Ltd Company, Cleveland, Ohio to oversee the
survey project.
Mrs.
Butville seconded the motion.
Dr. Spitz
wished to express his support for the survey even though it was not a
perfect option since it costs money, however, he believes that it would
have been the most efficient way to get the most input from the largest
number of people from the community.
The Board
approved the motion by a vote of seven ayes and two nays (Dr. Spitz and
Mr. Stack).
Mr. Stack requested in lieu of that
action that the Board consider placing the content of what was prepared
for the survey on the Neshaminy website for the public to review and take
into consideration for the Act 34 Hearing.
Mr. Eccles requested a chance to
review the material before it was actually placed on the website.
There was Board consensus to put
the information on the website.
Federal Programs
Mr. Wilson stated that there was no
report. Mr. Wilson wanted the
public to know that the Act 34 Hearing packets would be available for the
public to pick-up at the district offices between the hours of 9:00 a.m.
and 4:00 p.m.
Other Board Business
No other board business.
Correspondence
The Board
Secretary advised that there was no correspondence.
Public Comment
Mr.
Tom Gallagher, Middletown Township, expressed to the Board his concern
that this meeting could not be moved to the auditorium when it became
evident the number of citizens present at this evenings meeting. People were unable to hear.
Very important business was transpiring this evening.
People were in the hallway. Mr.
Gallagher does not understand the logic of this Board and the antagonistic
attitude toward the citizens of our community.
The Act 34 Hearing is nothing but a farce to jam a new school down
the taxpayers throat. The
community cannot afford same, but the Board will not listen.
Mr. Alden Thorpe, Middletown
Township, repeated some of the comments of Mr. Gallagher and he was also
ashamed that senior citizens were required to stand in the hallways to
attend this meeting. The
Board should recognize that the public is not for a new high school.
The taxpayer is saying that there needs to be another way.
Mr. Thorpe is ashamed that there are no microphones, the Board does
not have microphones, and the public could not possibly hear in the
hallway.
Mr. Jay
Dombach, Flint Road, advised that he does not have much stake in the
building since his daughter is a senior and his other daughter is a
freshman, however, he does not understand why the decisions that are made
are not followed up on. Mr.
Dombach notes that in the paper we are told not to purchase things we
cannot afford. However, if
that were true there would be very few people sitting in this room today
living in houses or driving automobiles.
Most people need to obtain loans to get what they want.
Mr. Dombach does not know how the general public is going to make a
decision when they don’t have all the information and have not taken the
time to review all the material. The
survey would have given the public a chance to voice their opinion.
Mr. Dombach would recommend if it is put on the website there
should be some way for the public to respond to same.
Mr. Dombach noted that things have changed in the past thirty
years. Education costs have
risen. Best motivators are
good parents. But, students
need adequate buildings to learn. This
Board made a decision to go ahead and now politics have become involved.
Mr. Dombach urged the Board to be a leader and stick with their
decisions.
Mr. Solis Basen, Langhorne, PA,
confirmed that the Act 34 Hearing will take place at the Maple Point
Auditorium. Mr. Basen
questioned why the need for another presentation.
The Board has heard the people, small groups, large groups and the
majority are against the new high school.
What will happen after the Act 34 hearing?
Will the Board go back to their original thoughts even though they
are hearing the voice of the people?
Mr. Jack Shaw, Langhorne, PA,
stated he has heard various figures, however he has not heard figures on
what the costs will be to repair these schools in the time the district is
building the new school. These
repairs have been presented as being necessary, roofs are leaking, boilers
need repair, etc. No one has
addressed these costs, in addition to the new school.
Mr. Shaw advised the Board to get realistic about the costs since
the figures not only include the new school, but it includes necessary
maintenance to the old one.
Mr. Joe
Robb, Neshaminy Teacher, with address at 67 Premier Drive, Langhorne, PA,
l9053, which is Northampton Township, stated the Board needs the
perspective from the teachers point of view.
Mr. Robb stated that he only has three more years in the district,
but he has put a lot of time studying this issue.
Mr. Robb works in the building everyday.
In Mr. Robb’s community since the new school was built, four
houses have sold for $70,000 above market price.
Mr. Robb noted that if this community wants this school district to
grow, the district needs to do something about the high school.
New housing developments, new community centers, etc. are being
built. Mr. Robb sympathizes
with the public who has lived in their homes for thirty and forty years
and cannot pay the taxes. Mr. Robb stated that the state government needs to step in
and assist in those situations. Mr.
Robb noted that all the difficult renovations are left in the building.
It does not make any sense to build the school on the same
footprint that it is on right now and continue the roof area and boiler
systems, etc. Mr. Robb noted that the political agendas need to stop.
Mr. Phil Schieber, Langhorne, PA,
suggested that this meeting should have taken place in a larger hall since
he was going to bring a lot of people to the meeting.
Mr. Schieber stated that he does have a political agenda and he
wants to continue to live where he lives.
If the taxes are raised any more he will need to move.
An average increase was not seen by the residents of Flowers Mill.
Mr. Schieber is concerned about the rush to do a bond issue.
What is the rush to do the bond issue?
Mr. Schieber noted that if you proceed before the thirty days, you
are violating the spirit of Act 34 and you may be violating sect rules by
putting out a perspective on something that you plan to do that you do not
have the proper approval to do. The
Board needs to look at the new rules, which have come out due to Enron.
The Board is now personally responsible for bad decisions regarding
finances.
Mr. Michael
Booth, Levittown, PA, is thinking about retirement and does not think he
can afford an increase. Mr.
Booth is looking for other options and even though the Board is elected to
make hard decisions, they also need to listen to the public.
The public has told you what to do.
Mr. Louis
Goodman, Langhorne, PA, commented that the Board should hold off until the
new Board is in place and let them handle the problems, and if they decide
to change things it will cost money.
If you decide to wait and do nothing and let them decide it will
not cost anything more. The
bond issue will not rise, interest rates will not rise in another six
weeks. Mr. Goodman agrees
with the fact that there should be a larger room and amplification, and
the school board meetings should be videotaped and shown on the local TV
channel.
Mr. Wilson
addressed the larger room issue and advised that during the summer the
maintenance crews are working in the auditoriums and larger rooms, major
construction is going on currently at this facility.
Mrs. Rita Geddes, Feasterville, PA,
noted that many people are intimidated to come forward and speak because
if someone is for the building of a new high school they are heckled by
other members of the public. Mrs.
Geddes noted that a teacher, who does not live in this district, gave up
his own time to come and speak because he cares that much about the
school, students and community, and all he received was rudeness and
heckling. Mrs. Geddes further
noted that it is difficult for her to bring two people to the meetings
because one of the adults needs to stay home with the children.
The numbers at the meeting do not necessarily reflect the number of
people for a new high school. Mrs.
Geddes was a member of the steering committee and the tax increase to
renovate is relatively the same as building new.
If the public really wants to make a difference in the taxes work
with your state legislator, write letters, get it changed to an income
based system and not a property based system.
The public needs to present their views to the state legislators.
Mrs. Geddes believes that senior citizen’s taxes should be frozen
when they reach a certain point, in order that they do not have to leave
their homes. That issue
cannot be addressed here, it is a state wide problem and the state
legislators need to hear this. Mrs.
Geddes stated once again, someone who speaks in favor of new high school,
is interpreted and not allowed to continue.
Mrs. Geddes has a right to speak, and not be attacked personally.
Mrs. Sharon Binder, Feasterville,
PA, stated that her husband would also like to attend the meetings,
however, he needs to stay at home with the children.
Mrs. Binder feels that the people for the new high school are
underrepresented since they are the parents of the students.
Mrs. Binder is concerned about the senior citizens, however, if the
option to renovate is chosen, what happens to the students who cannot
tolerate that type of environment. What
will happen to the students who will become ill during the renovations due
to the mold, asbestos, etc. Mrs.
Binder noted that 24% of the students at Ferderbar Elementary have
diagnosis of asthma. What
will the cost be to the district to educate them in other schools.
Mrs. Binder is concerned about the impact health wise and cost wise
of that occurring. Mrs.
Binder stated that it was attempted to be addressed at the Steering
Committee but it was stated that that was not the forum for that
discussion. Mrs. Binder noted
that costs cannot be the only factor; it needs to be about the community.
Mrs. Binder cannot speak higher of Neshaminy School District and
the education her daughter is receiving, however, Mrs. Binder is very
concerned about some of the health issues that have not been addressed.
Mrs. Helene
Kostar, Langhorne, PA, is speaking as an aunt with nieces and nephews in
the school district and someone who is involved with children in her
development who attend Neshaminy School District.
Mrs. Kostar stated that back in May a total of $1.5M that had been
spent on the architect in Minnesota and while Mrs. Kostar reviewed the
summary this evening there was another $636,000 spent in July making a
total of $2.1M spent on a project that as of this date has not yet been
approved. That money could be
spent on the children. Mrs. Kostar has been attending meetings since last September
asking for a referendum because Mrs. Kostar feels that it is the public
that should make the decisions. Mrs.
Kostar has presented several times to make Maple Point 9-10 and make the
high school 11-12. Mrs.
Kostar does not want to hear that Maple Point does not have the field
capabilities. It was a high
school in the seventies. Mrs.
Kostar does not want to hear that the administrators are there and they
cannot move. The students
should have the highest priorities, regardless of all other situations.
Mrs. Kostar remarked that the survey does not include all the other
options. Mrs. Kostar is concerned that when she sends a letter it will
be trashed. Does she need to
send a copy to the state Board of Education?
That is why Mrs. Kostar is in favor of a referendum.
Mrs. Esther Mikus, Langhorne, PA,
stated that she is speaking for the first time at a school board.
Mrs. Mikus finds the process offensive, from the senior citizens
who should know better about how to act and be respectful of people
speaking and from certain Board members.
The public has an opinion. Mrs.
Mikus has been in the high school. Mrs.
Mikus had to leave the classroom due to an asthma attack she experienced
from the mold. It is
offensive. Mrs. Mikus does not want a tax increase either, but if
something is not done now, this community will suffer.
Mrs. Mikus is very disappointed in all the senior citizens present
for making fun of the opinions of others whether it agrees with yours or
not.
Mrs. Michelle MacKay, Langhorne,
PA, stated that the issue for her is not do we need a new high school, she
feels that probably something needs to be done.
Issues are directly affecting the health and welfare of our
children. Mrs. MacKay feels
that it has nothing to do with whether or not she is qualified to know
whether the school is in bad shape. Mrs.
MacKay is qualified enough to know that the taxes are unaffordable.
Mrs. MacKay’s husband is in the building industry, which happens
to be the only industry making money, however, they froze his pay.
Mrs. MacKay is paying $600.00 per month for health insurance.
Mrs. MacKay knows the teachers are not paying for the Personal
Choice they are receiving. Mrs.
MacKay cannot afford what will happen to her taxes, however, she
understands that renovations need to occur since the school is in poor
condition. Mrs. MacKay stated
that if a survey were to be sent to her house she would be completing
hers, she would be completing husband’s, her mother’s, her father’s.
Mrs. MacKay stated that her husband does not sign his own paycheck.
Mrs. MacKay says that you take the opportunity that is given or you
miss it. If the public did
not come to the polls and voice their opinion the first time then they
missed the opportunity. Mrs.
MacKay is glad the survey was reversed and the money can be spent on other
school needs.
Mr. Sol
Basen, Langhorne, PA, noted that prior to some of the meetings the choir,
jazz band, or awards were presented, etc.
Mr. Basen hoped that during the Act 34 Hearing there would be no
grandstanding. Stick to
business.
Mr. Clem
Piscitelli, Langhorne, PA stated that he has been a resident since 1959
and was on the school board in the 60’s and 70’s for 10 years.
At that time microphones were available for each school Board
member. Mr. Piscitelli noted
that this evenings meeting could have taken place at the high school in
order to accommodate all the people who have attended.
Mr. Piscitelli inquired regarding the Addendum to the
Superintendent’s contract, and Mr. Piscitelli inquired whether he can
come to the district to examine the contract and see what he is being
paid.
Mrs. Bostwick noted that the
Superintendent’s contract is a personnel issue and was handled in
Executive Session. Ms. Drioli
suggested that Mr. Piscitelli speak with the solicitor regarding same.
Board Comment
Mr. Soifer
remarked that if students who are members of the choir, jazz band, etc.
perform before a meeting it is not grandstanding.
Mr. Soifer noted that there are times when students are
acknowledged for their achievements.
Most people feel that it is worthwhile venture and that is why it
is done.
Ms. Drioli commented that when
people do not come to vote she does not want to hear that they are too
busy. Ms. Drioli feels it is a gift to exercise your freedom
to vote. Going to vote does
not take much effort. Ms.
Drioli stated that the silent majority had a right to be heard; the same
right was given to them as the people who exercised their right.
Ms. Drioli does respect the vote and the outcome of the vote, and
she will never take that process lightly.
Ms. Drioli feels that the right to vote is very important.
Ms. Drioli cannot honor your opinion if you do not come out and
vote.
Mrs.
Butville stated that she feels she was elected to serve the entire
community and do what is right for the entire community, not just those
who voted for her. Mrs.
Butville took the time, looked at the information, and decided what is
best for both the taxpayer and the students.
Mrs. Butville stated that those who are scared of a tax increase
associated with a new high school should be terrified of the alternatives,
because the Board has looked at all the information.
Mrs. Butville stated that other options have been reviewed.
Mrs. Butville came into this process with an open mind. Renovations will cost millions and will only last ten or
fifteen years. Maintenance
projections are higher with a renovated high school.
The current facility is very difficult to bring up to code.
Mrs. Butville stressed to the public all the advantages of the new
facility. Mrs. Butville also
noted that the PSSA scores were a mistake for Lower Southampton
Elementary.
Mr. Wilson
noted that an appeal was filed and the district’s appeal was upheld. The attendance issue at the high school was cited because six
fewer special education students failed to take the test.
The test is not feasible for some special education students.
Mr. Stack
commented that it is very important for the public to review the
information that has been provided and also the information available on
the Neshaminy website. Detailed
information is provided for the public’s review which provides answers
to many of the questions presented this evening by the public.
Mr.
Schoenstadt addressed the issue of renovations.
The timetable for new construction is 39 months.
The timetable for renovations while the students are attending high
school is 6-8 years of renovations. Mr.
Schoenstadt would never vote to subject students in the community to 6-8
years of “torture.” Mr.
Stack also noted that 24 portable classrooms would need to be purchased.
Adjournment
Mrs. Jowett moved the meeting be
adjourned and Mr. Soifer seconded the motion.
The Board unanimously approved the motion.
Mrs. Bostwick adjourned the meeting at 9:50 p.m.
Respectively submitted,
Anita E. Walls
Board Secretary |
