Sep 22, 2005 2 min read

The Herald-Standard was correct in saying that opponents of the $46 million renovation/demolition of Uniontown Area Senior High cam “late to the party,” but we’re still in time to spread that figure among four buildings. The bond issue defines “project” to not only mean the high school renovation, but to also include “various other capital improvements projects throughout the district.” The district architect confirmed this to me.

Altman and Altman architects say that the “life expectancy” of Ben Franklin expires in 2010 and Lafayette in 2007, with A. J. McMullen having expired in 1997. Soon taxpayers will pay to renovate these three schools.

How much will that cost? If the board gives up this Taj Mahal high school, the $46 million could be used to possibly renovate four schools.

Not counting the special education rooms, the present high school has a student capacity of 1,140. The enrollment in 2003 was 1,109. Why do we need a bigger school?

Mr. Mark Altman told me that while he states that the old section is not cost effective for remodeling, no one has actually done a study. He stated that construction costs $140 per square foot (plus demolition?) and remodeling costs $80, but added that that figure might not apply to the old section. He said that it would be “hard as heck” to put a second elevator into the old section, but an elevator could be installed in the unused courtyard across from the main door servicing all four floors.

His other reasons for demolition are: windows installed in the 1980s aren’t double pane, doorknobs aren’t handicapped-friendly, bricks need repointed, students aren’t using their lockers, some teachers have to go to other floors to restrooms, science labs aren’t grouped together, and math teachers can’t conference easily.

So this is why we are building a $46 million school that with interest will cost between $95 and $107. million.

Board President Mr. Harry Kaufman states that the 2.83 millage could come down if they trim $1 million from other items. Taking $1 million off brings the millage down to 2.76 mills.

At the Sept. 13 school board meeting, Superintendent Charles Machesky was asked if he could definitely state that this new building would improve student performance. His answer was, “I can’t answer that question now.

I’d have to say ‘no.'” It’s time to remodel the old school and put the remainder of the money into the other three schools, saving taxpayers a bundle.

Rev. Peter A. Malik

Uniontown