http://post.mainelymediallc.com/news/2013-12-20/Letter/Renovation_impact_deserves_careful_study.html
To the editor:
The ancient tale of the elephant and six blind men comes to mind when
I read recent letters to the editor regarding the RSU 21 proposal of
$74.8 million for renovations of the school systems of Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Arundel.
In that tale, the blind men are asked to determine what an elephant
looks like. One blind man feels a leg and says the elephant is like a
pillar; the other men say: the tail, it’s like a rope; the trunk, a tree
branch; the ear, a hand fan; the belly, a wall; and finally, one who
feels the tusk says the elephant is like a solid pipe. They all compare
notes and learn that they are in complete disagreement.
The RSU 21 proposal is variously portrayed as: more than most in our
communities can afford, a long overdue renovation of a shockingly unsafe
high school with leaks everywhere, classrooms in a pre-tech condition
in rundown buildings with no sprinkler systems and inadequate bathrooms.
It is asserted that the nearly $75 million renovation would not be
complete without expanded athletic fields and a costly new visual and
performing arts center, all of which will reward business owners and
homeowners, increase property values and bring an influx of businesses.
The impact of the complex financing requires careful study. The
actual total amount to be paid with interest will be $113 million for a
25-year-bond period. Director Tim Hussey says he hopes that, “This
financing strategy ... does make this easier to swallow for a lot of
folks.” Director Diane Robbins disagrees, saying ultimately taxpayers
end up paying more, including the interest and, “That only benefits the
bank.” A Kennebunk selectman says, “It is probably the largest dollar amount ever voted on in this town.”
read more...
This blog is dedicated to posting news and information on key issues and opportunities which may have an effect on our way of life in Arundel, Maine
USA. The goal is to provide insight into key issues and opportunities while providing the community a knowledgebase for self directed education while creating a public forum for constructive comments and open sharing of ideas.
Please send ideas for topics to arundelmaine@roadrunner.com.
Friday, December 27, 2013
RSU 21 Building Project Impact Calculator
RSU 21 Building Project Impact Calculator
http://www.rsu21.net/news/2013/11/14/please-vote-on-the-school-construction-referendum
On September 16, 2013, the RSU 21 Board heard proposals recommending significant upgrades to Kennebunk High School, Mildred L. Day School, and Kennebunkport Consolidated School. The estimated costs of these projects are:Mildred L. Day School: $11.32M.
Kennebunkport Consolidated School: $9.96M
Kennebunk High School: $53.55M.
By entering data from your 2013 tax bill into the chart, below, you may determine the approximate total impact of these projects on your tax bill during each year of repayment of this 25 year bond. This tax burden will decrease each year of the bond.
click here to see the effect on your taxes:
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Polls open 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Absentee balloting will be available by contacting your town clerk’s office:
Arundel: 207-985-4201
Kennebunk: 207-985-2102, x-1326
Kennebunkport: 207-967-4243, x-110
Absentee balloting will be available by contacting your town clerk’s office:
Arundel: 207-985-4201
Kennebunk: 207-985-2102, x-1326
Kennebunkport: 207-967-4243, x-110
Monday, December 23, 2013
Tuesday, January 21, 2014 residents will be asked to vote on the $74.8 million construction renovation projects proposed by RSU # 21
Absentee
ballots for the January 21, 2014 RSU # 21 Construction Bond Referendum
Election will be available from December 20, 2013 until January 15,
2014. Please click on the link below to print an absentee
ballot application in the event that you should need a ballot mailed to
you.
Please note that on Tuesday, January 21, 2014 residents will be asked to vote on the $74.8 million construction renovation projects proposed by RSU # 21. Polls will be open from 8 AM until 8 PM on this day at the Arundel Fire Station. Each and every vote matters. Please be involved. For more information visit www.rsu21.net .
Please note that on Tuesday, January 21, 2014 residents will be asked to vote on the $74.8 million construction renovation projects proposed by RSU # 21. Polls will be open from 8 AM until 8 PM on this day at the Arundel Fire Station. Each and every vote matters. Please be involved. For more information visit www.rsu21.net .
Thursday, December 19, 2013
School improvements are much needed
http://post.mainelymediallc.com/news/2013-12-13/Letters/School_improvements_are_much_needed.html
To the editor:
As a former student of Kennebunk High School and a community activist in our towns, I support this renovation project in its entirety. Frankly, I do not see why we, as a community, do not support it wholeheartedly. I know there will be financial hardship incurred from increased property taxes; however, no investment has a better yield than this project. We, as a community, will invest our tax dollars in new facilities for our students and in return our students will succeed.
read more...
To the editor:
As a former student of Kennebunk High School and a community activist in our towns, I support this renovation project in its entirety. Frankly, I do not see why we, as a community, do not support it wholeheartedly. I know there will be financial hardship incurred from increased property taxes; however, no investment has a better yield than this project. We, as a community, will invest our tax dollars in new facilities for our students and in return our students will succeed.
read more...
Are residents ready for renovation vote?
http://post.mainelymediallc.com/news/2013-12-13/Letters/Are_residents_ready_for_renovation_vote.html
To the editor:
Are you folks in Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Arundel ready for that school renovation election on Jan. 21? Anybody with a lick of sense knows the vote count will be diminished due to snowbirds away for the winter, the difficulty for the elderly, shut-ins and the general public to get out due to frigid temperatures and icy roads and sidewalks.
read more...
To the editor:
Are you folks in Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Arundel ready for that school renovation election on Jan. 21? Anybody with a lick of sense knows the vote count will be diminished due to snowbirds away for the winter, the difficulty for the elderly, shut-ins and the general public to get out due to frigid temperatures and icy roads and sidewalks.
read more...
School vote puts citizens in peril
http://post.mainelymediallc.com/news/2013-12-13/Letters/School_vote_puts_citizens_in_peril.html
To the editor:
The citizens comprising RSU 21 have heard and read a great deal about the RSU 21 schools in peril and about the $75 million bond vote on Jan. 21 to save these schools.
What hasn’t been discussed publicly is the peril in which many voters find themselves financially. Senior citizens, for instance, live on fixed incomes and already budget every penny toward monthly mandatory expenses. Where will they get the additional tax money if the Jan. 21 vote passes? There no longer is a circuit breaker program, and, yes, many seniors depend upon that program.
In this economy, a number of citizens within the RSU 21 community are unemployed or underemployed.
read more...
To the editor:
The citizens comprising RSU 21 have heard and read a great deal about the RSU 21 schools in peril and about the $75 million bond vote on Jan. 21 to save these schools.
What hasn’t been discussed publicly is the peril in which many voters find themselves financially. Senior citizens, for instance, live on fixed incomes and already budget every penny toward monthly mandatory expenses. Where will they get the additional tax money if the Jan. 21 vote passes? There no longer is a circuit breaker program, and, yes, many seniors depend upon that program.
In this economy, a number of citizens within the RSU 21 community are unemployed or underemployed.
read more...
School renovation plan deserves support
http://post.mainelymediallc.com/news/2013-12-13/Letters/School_renovation_plan_deserves_support.html
To the editor:
Regional School Unit 21 has proposed an aggressive renovation plan for Kennebunk High School, Kennebunkport Consolidated School and Mildred L. Day School. The plan provides state-of-the-art facilities to all communities throughout the RSU and will provide a safe and appealing environment for learning.
read more...
To the editor:
Regional School Unit 21 has proposed an aggressive renovation plan for Kennebunk High School, Kennebunkport Consolidated School and Mildred L. Day School. The plan provides state-of-the-art facilities to all communities throughout the RSU and will provide a safe and appealing environment for learning.
read more...
RSU costs out of line with others
http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20131219-OPINION-312190350
To the Editor:
The Bangor Daily News reported in March 2013, on the most expensive high schools in the state of Maine:
(1) Mt. Blue at a cost of $56,651,000, opened in 2013, capacity 925 students. Cost per student $61,200.
(2) Hampden at a cost of $49,200,000, opened in 2012, capacity 800 students. Cost per student $61,500.
These projects included the cost of land and its development
Setting the record straight
http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20131219-OPINION-312190352?cid=sitesearch
This communication contained inaccurate information on the costs associated with these projects. Specifically, the letter stated that the repayment of the bond would remain constant for 25 years and that increased operating costs of more than $400,000 per year were not included in the projected increase to taxes.
read more...
To the Editor:
I
am writing to help clear up a very unfortunate mistake made by the
Kennebunkport Selectmen in their recent letter to Kennebunkport
residents regarding the upcoming January 21st referendum on the RSU 21
school renovation proposal.
This communication contained inaccurate information on the costs associated with these projects. Specifically, the letter stated that the repayment of the bond would remain constant for 25 years and that increased operating costs of more than $400,000 per year were not included in the projected increase to taxes.
read more...
Second, corrected letter to be sent to Port voters
KENNEBUNKPORT — The Board of Selectmen will be mailing a second letter to residents regarding the upcoming January vote on the proposed RSU 21 renovation projects, correcting inaccuracies in a letter sent out earlier this month.
An original letter dated Dec. 9 — which was mailed to residents to let voters know of the Jan. 21 vote on the proposed $74.8 million renovation projects to Kennebunk High School, Mildred L. Day School and Kennebunkport Consolidated School — included inaccuracies regarding the bond repayment and operating costs if the renovation projects are approved.
"We're getting ready to write a new letter explaining in more detail, because it was absolutely wrong what we put in there. We didn't do that on purpose, we just made a mistake," said the board's Vice Chairman Allen Daggett, at the Dec. 13 meeting. "We're going to do everything we can to rectify the mistakes. We're going to really do our best to get this rectified and do it the right way."
Urges no vote on school bond
To the Editor:
The citizens comprising RSU 21 have heard and read a great deal about the RSU 21 schools in peril and about the $75 million bond vote on Jan. 21 to save these schools. What hasn`t been discussed publicly is the peril in which many voters find themselves financially. Senior citizens, for instance, live on fixed incomes and already budget every penny toward monthly mandatory expenses. Where will they get the additional tax money if the Jan. 21 vote passes? There no longer is a circuit breaker program, and, yes, many seniors depend upon that program. In this economy, a number of citizens within the RSU 21 community are unemployed or underemployed. Where will they find extra tax money, what will they have to give up?
RSU 21 to discuss $75M in renovations
By JEFF LAGASSE
Staff Writer
http://www.journaltribune.com/articles/2013/11/30/news/doc529906de331a8763298864.txt
ARUNDEL — With a vote looming in January to determine whether Regional School Unit 21 undertakes a $75 million renovation of several of its schools, educators and town officials in Arundel, Kennebunk, and Kennebunkport are making a push to provide the public with as much information as possible.
It’s with this in mind that district representatives will hold a facilities tour of the Mildred L. Day School in Arundel on Monday at 6 p.m., to be followed at 7 p.m. by a public hearing on the current state of the renovation plans.
The proposed plan calls for major updates to Mildred L. Day School, Kennebunk High School and Kennebunkport Consolidated School. In the case of Mildred L. Day School, the primary focus would be on the replacement of the C and D wings. Built on unstable soil, those areas have experienced settling of about 1/2 inch per year, which has affected the structural integrity of the roof. Tim Hussey, chairman of the RSU’s Facilities Committee, said during a public hearing in October that new floor plans for the school would allow for a building that has greater security, proper vehicle and pedestrian flow, a full-sized gymnasium, larger classrooms, and a multi-purpose space for both school and public use.
The proposal for all three schools, which would be renovated concurrently, was crafted by the district and by Auburn-based Harriman Architects and Engineers.
read more...
Kennebunk residents urged to vote absentee on school projects
http://www.journaltribune.com/articles/2013/12/17/news/doc52a9df523f6b7142841440.txt
By JEFF LAGASSE
Staff Writer
KENNEBUNK — The Town of Kennebunk’s upcoming
mailing won’t exactly be a letter to Santa, but it will contain a gift
for its residents: absentee ballots, and a summary of information
pertinent to the impending vote on a $75 million renovation project
proposed by Regional School Unit 21.The letter, which may be sent out as soon as this week, breaks down the costs of potential improvements that would be made to three of the district’s schools – Kennebunk High School, Kennebunkport Consolidated School and the Mildred L. Day School in Arundel – as well as information on how to calculate the expected tax increase based on a resident’s property value.
read more...
Renovation needed for safety reasons
http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20131219-OPINION-312190348
To the Editor:
To the Editor:
RSU21
has proposed an aggressive renovation plan for Kennebunk High School,
Kennebunkport Consolidated School and Mildred L. Day School. The plan
provides state of the art facilities to all communities throughout the
RSU and will provide a safe and appealing environment for learning.
Friday, December 6, 2013
Thursday, December 5, 2013
THE ANNUAL ARUNDEL COMMUNITY TREE LIGHTING
The Town of Arundel cordially invites Arundel residents, friends and neighbors to THE ANNUAL COMMUNITY TREE LIGHTING on Friday, December 6, 2013 at the Arundel Fire Station on the corner of Limerick Road & Mountain Road
Schedule of events:
5:40pm Shuttle service between ML Day School and Fire Station begins.
Pick-up & drop off locations will be on the sidewalk in front of the main office to MLD, and on Mountain Road next to Community Tree. (Last shuttle back to MLD will be at 8:00pm).
Schedule of events:
5:40pm Shuttle service between ML Day School and Fire Station begins.
Pick-up & drop off locations will be on the sidewalk in front of the main office to MLD, and on Mountain Road next to Community Tree. (Last shuttle back to MLD will be at 8:00pm).
- 5:50pm Little Melodies Band
6:00pm ML Day School Carolers
6:15-6:45pm Little Melodies Band continues to entertain
6:30-8:00pm Horse-drawn wagon rides with Rockin’ Horse Stables begin in Town Hall/Limerick Road parking lot.
6:45pm: Community sing-along to welcome Santa Claus as he arrives on a fire truck to light the Tree.
6:50-end Free photo & visit with Santa for each child
Throughout the evening: Kids’ crafts, face-painting, Xmas kids’ tattoos, popcorn, cookies & hot cocoa.
8:00pm Last shuttle ride back to ML Day School.
Arundel Fire-Rescue reports
Accident: Arundel Fire-Rescue responded to 670 Limerick Road for a motor vehicle crash on Nov. 29. On arrival units found a single vehicle that had struck a tree and the single occupant/operator was unconscious and trapped in the vehicle. The patient was extricated in approximately 10 minutes using hydraulic tools and then transported by Arundel paramedic/firefighter to Maine Medical Center in Portland.
Board's actions 'deceptive'
To the Editor:
Deception:
the inclination or practice of misleading others through lies or
trickery. It is becoming more and more apparent that the RSU 21 Board of
Directors are masters at the art of deception. Every major town
official NOT on the RSU 21 Board recommended against a January
referendum, but the board scheduled it anyway. First, they told us that
the special referendum was being scheduled in January because of their
great concern to save us money by avoiding rising interest rates,
building costs, etc. But last week they voted to extend the bond to 25
years, adding over $4 million in interest for us to pay. (We also get to
pay a sizeable amount just for the special referendum.)
Residents to receive voter info
KENNEBUNKPORT — The town of Kennebunkport will
be mailing information on the upcoming RSU 21 referendum to registered
voters next week.
On January 21, voters will
be asked to approve $74.8 million for three construction projects —
$53.5 million proposed for Kennebunk High School, $11.32 million
proposed for Mildred L. Day School, and $9.96 million proposed for
Kennebunkport Consolidated School.
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
Biddeford police investigate rash of robberies, issue surveillance image
By David Hench dhench@pressherald.com
Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Biddeford police have issued a surveillance image of a person wanted for questioning in connection with a series of robberies over the past week, including another one that happened Tuesday night.
Police are investigating a robbery...
read more...
Town ponders seasonal cottages
Arundel officials discuss possibility of using TIF district for project
Housing units numbering approximately 260 would be constructed on 195 acres between Portland Road and Mountain Road, just north of Fritz’s Tire and Timeless Classics.
The size of the units would range from 850 to 1,350 square feet and would be valued, on average, at $220,000.
In addition to the housing units, a 9.2 parcel fronting Route 1 would provide commercial and retail space for a year-round establishment such as a post office, Paolini said.
read more...
Arundel Market robbed at gunpoint
http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20131203-NEWS-131209934
ARUNDEL, Maine — York County Sheriff deputies are investigating a Monday night robbery of the Arundel Market.
Chief
Deputy William King of the York County Sheriff’s Office said the
Portland Road market was robbed at gunpoint at approximately 8 p.m.
Monday, when a single male showed a handgun and demanded money from the
cash register.
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Town hall site list whittled
Questionnaire to gauge residents’ interest in building a new facility
The selectmen, after a handful of site visits since September in search of a parcel to house the new town hall, have narrowed their selection down to two locations. While the board will not release specific locations, Selectman Velma Jones Hayes disclosed that one parcel is located on Limerick Road, and the other is adjacent to the town garage.
Arundel Town Hall sits on the corner of Limerick and Mountain roads next to Arundel Fire-Rescue. The building’s tight quarters prevent town boards and committees from holding meetings on site.
“It’s small, it’s cramped, and there’s no handicap access. We think it has outlived its useful life,” Shea said of the town hall in July. “We’d like to have the ability to hold our selectmen meetings, town hall meetings and elections right in one building rather than go over to Mildred Day (school) or the fire station with all the voting equipment.”
In the next few weeks, Shea and the board of selectmen plan to compile infor- mation for a questionnaire to be mailed to Arundel residents the first week in December.
read more...
Disagrees with Parry column To the Editor:
Disagrees with Parry column
http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20131121-OPINION-311210319
To the Editor:
In my view, Arundel, Kennebunk, and Kennebunkport voters will turn out in large numbers this coming Jan. 21st. Why? Because our schools (along with these long-overdue school renovation projects) represent the heart, the soul and the values of each of our three communities. Our voters care. This is the case regardless of the views voiced by our local State Representative last week ('Board Needs to Reconsider January Vote,' Rep. Wayne R. Parry, YCCS Nov. 14, 2013).
Yes, the total cost is significant.
read more...
Residents call Kennebunk High 'horrifying,' say renovations needed
KENNEBUNK — After a tour of Kennebunk High School Monday night, one resident said he was "shocked" while another said it's "obvious" that improvements need to be made.
While approximately 30 people attended a public hearing Monday held by the RSU 21 Board of Directors on the proposed $74.8 million renovation projects, with a number speaking in support of the $53.5 million plans to renovate Kennebunk High School, others questioned costs. The renovations to KHS are one of three projects making up the $74.8 million question voters will be asked to decide on Jan. 21 — including $11.3 million for proposed renovations to Mildred L. Day School and $9.96 for proposed renovations to Kennebunkport Consolidated School.
Held in the cafeteria of KHS following a tour of the building open to the public, much of the discussion centered around the high school building project.
"Frankly,
I am shocked at what I saw. This building is horrifying, it's
horrifying," said Kennebunk resident Neil McMahon. "One of the reasons
we moved to this town was because of the education that our kids are
getting, and they are getting a fantastic education. The educators here
get the highest marks, but this building is at the end of its
line...;Walking through this building it feels like you're going through
a corn maze and it feels prison-like."
The board released projected operating costs for the three building projects for the first time Monday, a request of residents at recent board meetings and public hearings.
According to the figures released, current annual operating costs — mechanical, electric, heat, water and sewer — total $77,769 at Consolidated School, $82,745 at Mildred L. Day School and $307,480 at Kennebunk High School. Projected figures show that operating costs could increase to $92,600 at Consolidated, $84,900 at M.L. Day and $399,400 at KHS after the renovations.
Hearings, tours planned
Additional public hearings on the building
projects will take place on Monday, Dec. 2 at Mildred L. Day School and
Monday, Dec. 16 at Consolidated School. The public hearings will begin
at 7 p.m. with tours of the facilities offered starting at 6 p.m.
Additional tours will be offered: on Saturday, Nov. 23, at 9 a.m. at M.L. Day, 10:30 a.m. at Consolidated and noon at KHS; Saturday, Dec. 7 at 9 a.m. at M.L. Day and 10:30 a.m. at KHS; and Saturday, Jan. 11 at 9 a.m. at M.L. Day, 10:30 a.m. at Consolidated and noon at KHS.
RSU 21 board votes to expand bond to 25 years
KENNEBUNK — In an effort to lower the annual tax impact of the proposed $74.8 million renovation projects, the RSU 21 Board of Directors has opted to bond the projects over 25 years.
The board voted on Monday, Nov. 18 to extend the bond to 25 years, from 20 years as originally projected, which drops the highest year of repayment for taxpayers by more than 15 percent, they said. Extending the bond over a longer period of time will lessen the individual taxpayer's payment of the bond, but increases the total amount to be paid for the projects with interest, from $109 million to $113 million.
Voters will decide on Jan. 21 whether to support $74.8 million in school
renovations for Kennebunk High School, Kennebunkport Consolidated
School and Mildred L. Day School.
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Time for RSU 21 board to reconsider January vote
By Rep. Wayne R. Parry
As people may or may not be aware, the vote on the $74.8 million renovations for Kennebunk High School, Mildred L. Day School and Kennebunkport Consolidated School will be held in January 2014. I was disappointed and confused with the odd date chosen to hold a vote on such an important issue.
According to data provided by the Kennebunkport town clerk and reported in the York County Coast Star last month, the town averages 76 percent voter turnout during November elections and 40 percent during June elections. A January vote was held in 2009 and attracted a whopping 6 percent of voters. According to the Arundel town clerk, the last vote held in January was in 2009 and only 35 residents voted. The largest non-November vote in the last decade was only 991; 2,281 residents voted in last year's November election.
The question every taxpayer in Arundel, Kennebunk, and Kennebunkport should be asking is "WHY?" This choice of election date makes it appear that the RSU Board wants a low turnout. Can you imagine holding one of the withdrawal votes on an off day, when even the largest non-November vote has only seen 991 voters or when the lowest in the last January vote was 35 voters? When
Arundel went through the withdrawal process my goal was a November vote so the largest possible turnout would be achieved. Win or lose, if 60-70 percent of the voters cast a ballot (which is the usual turnout in November), residents can be confident that the outcome is what the town wants.
RSU plan applauded
To the Editor:
Much has
been made of the conversation around the RSU 21 plan to renovate
Kennebunkport Consolidated School, along with Arundel's Mildred L. Day
School and Kennebunk High School. I applaud the RSU Board's commitment
to these projects. By committing to maintaining an elementary school in
each of our towns, and by taking on the long overdue task of updating
these facilities, the board and administration have shown great
dedication to our students and tremendous vision for our towns.
Kennebunkport Consolidated School is old and
tired. It is undersized and antiquated. Its life safety and energy
efficiency systems are virtually non-existent. But, what takes place at
the school every day, and almost every evening and weekend, contributes
in the most positive way possible to the sense of community that makes
Kennebunkport an ideal place to live.
I've heard it suggested that we should close the school and send the students to Kennebunk or Arundel. Although each of the schools in RSU 21 are providing for our students in the best manner possible, Maine law says each town gets to decide whether or not to close their school on their own, and I know I'm in the majority when I say we're not going to close Consolidated.
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Wells, Kennebunk high schools face multi-million-dollar renovation projects
On Tuesday Wells residents will cast their vote on whether to approve a $26.85 million construction project, while Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Arundel residents will be faced with three construction projects — including a $53.5 million renovation and expansion of Kennebunk High School — in January.
Two abutting towns and school communities are facing significant building renovation projects that will soon come before voters.
A comparison of the two high school building projects shows that while the cost per square foot is similar for both projects — at $223 for WHS and $220.44 for KHS — the cost per student ($58,317 for WHS vs. $76,500 for KHS) is more than $20,000 higher for the KHS project as is the square feet per student — 322 for KHS and 266.37 for WHS.
A look at the numbers:
Well High School
Proposed
cost: $26.85 million (a total of $27.7 million including $851,000 in
improvements to athletic fields approved separately by voters in June)
Cost per student: $58,317 (building for projected 475 students)
Cost per square foot of construction: $223
Square feet per student: 266.37 (current 452 students)
For more information on the building project, visit www.k12wocsd.net/home/whs-building-project.
Kennebunk High School
Proposed cost: $53.5 million
Cost per student: $76,500 (building for projected 700 students)
Cost per square foot of construction: $200.44
Square feet per student: 322 (current 684 students)
For more information on the project, visit www.rsu21.net.
School officials say comparing the projects could be like comparing apples and oranges, as Wells has a smaller student body with 452 students compared to Kennebunk's 681, and a facility built in 1977 compared to Kennebunk's 1939 original facility.
But the issues sound the same — classrooms are overcrowded, areas like the cafeteria or auditorium cannot hold the entire student body, and the aging facilities cannot support educational tools and electronic devices at either of the facilities. Building deficiencies have put Wells High School's accreditation with the New England Association of Schools and Colleges under a warning status, something Kennebunk High School administrators are concerned about in the years to come.
"I don't believe there are as many deficiencies they are trying to remedy and I think the scope is quite a bit less," said Tim Hussey, chairman of the RSU 21 Facilities Committee, which reviewed the KHS project. "I don't think they are in as tough a shape as we are in, although I believe they are worried about accreditation. We are going to be facing the same thing in a few years with accreditation if we don't deal with it."
Accreditation is reviewed every 10 years.
Maine man gets 20 years in baby’s death
He admits hurting the child for several weeks before causing a fatal injury by throwing the boy.
By David Hench dhench@pressherald.com
Staff Writer
Staff Writer
read more...
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Zumba prostitution scandal winding down
Just five of 68 cases that won Kennebunk unwelcome attention remain on the docket.
PORTLAND — The prostitution scandal centered on a Zumba studio in Kennebunk that shocked the sensibilities of residents and generated international headlines is rapidly drawing to a close.
The final five cases are awaiting resolution and that could happen
in coming weeks, either with pleas or trials. After that, no further
prosecutions are anticipated because judges ruled that the woman at the
heart of the scandal, Alexis Wright, cannot be forced to testify.
“Based on the rulings that the court has made in the last two trials regarding the testimony of Alexis Wright, we won’t be proceeding with any other charges,” said Justina McGettigan, deputy district attorney in York County.
read more...
By David Sharp
The Associated Press
The Associated Press
PORTLAND — The prostitution scandal centered on a Zumba studio in Kennebunk that shocked the sensibilities of residents and generated international headlines is rapidly drawing to a close.
“Based on the rulings that the court has made in the last two trials regarding the testimony of Alexis Wright, we won’t be proceeding with any other charges,” said Justina McGettigan, deputy district attorney in York County.
read more...
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Upcoming Elections Ballot questions
http://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/upcoming.html
November 5, 2013 – Referendum Election
Referendum Elections are held to provide Maine’s citizens an opportunity to vote on People’s Veto Referenda, Direct Initiatives of Legislation (i.e. Citizen Initiatives), Bond Issues, other referenda proposed by the Legislature, and Constitutional Amendments. Referendum elections are an important part of the heritage of public participation in Maine.
Do you favor a $100,000,000 bond issue for reconstruction and
rehabilitation of highways and bridges and for facilities or equipment
related to ports, harbors, marine transportation, freight and passenger
railroads, aviation and transit, to be used to match an estimated
$154,000,000 in federal and other funds?
Do you favor a $4,500,000 bond issue to provide funds for a
public-private partnership for a building project for a new science
facility at the Maine Maritime Academy to be matched by other funds?
Do you favor a $15,500,000 bond issue to upgrade buildings,
classrooms and laboratories on the 7 campuses of the Maine Community
College System in order to increase capacity to serve more students
through expanded programs in health care, precision machining,
information technology, criminal justice and other key programs?
November 5, 2013 – Referendum Election
Referendum Elections are held to provide Maine’s citizens an opportunity to vote on People’s Veto Referenda, Direct Initiatives of Legislation (i.e. Citizen Initiatives), Bond Issues, other referenda proposed by the Legislature, and Constitutional Amendments. Referendum elections are an important part of the heritage of public participation in Maine.
Citizen's Guide to the Referendum Election
Treasurer’s Statement for Bond Issues - .pdf | Treasurer’s Statement for Bond Issues - .doc |
Ballot questions
Question 1: Bond Issue
Do you favor a $14,000,000
bond issue to provide funds for the State's share of maintenance,
repair, capital improvement, modernization and energy efficiency
projects for Maine Army National Guard readiness centers and support
facilities and the purchase of land for training and to draw down
federal matching funds?
Question 2: Bond Issue
Do you favor a $15,500,000 bond issue to enhance educational and
employment opportunities for Maine citizens and students by updating
and improving existing laboratory and classroom facilities of the
University of Maine System statewide?
Question 3: Bond Issue
Question 4: Bond Issue
Question 5: Bond Issue
Thumbs up, thumbs down
http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20131024-OPINION-310240370
Thumbs down to RSU 21 officials for voting to hold the vote on $74 million in proposed renovations to three of the district's schools in January. While we understand the concerns that costs for the projects will rise the longer the district waits, given the fact that a building plan has been in discussion for at least three years (and the Master Facilities Plan was released two years ago) we find it hard to understand the need to hold the vote in January. If there was a need to vote as soon as possible to save money, wouldn't it have made more sense for officials to have the plan ready for a vote this November, to ensure the greatest number of voters weighed in on a project with tremendous potential impact to all three towns? With all three town clerks and board of selectmen urging the board against the January vote, we're concerned district officials have already created some distrust in the community that must be overcome for the project to succeed. We do take heart at Superintendent Andrew Dolloff's announcement that a committee is being formed to help educate the public on the upcoming vote. This is a project that will require a great deal of very detailed information to be shared so voters fully understand what is at stake.
read more...
Thumbs down to RSU 21 officials for voting to hold the vote on $74 million in proposed renovations to three of the district's schools in January. While we understand the concerns that costs for the projects will rise the longer the district waits, given the fact that a building plan has been in discussion for at least three years (and the Master Facilities Plan was released two years ago) we find it hard to understand the need to hold the vote in January. If there was a need to vote as soon as possible to save money, wouldn't it have made more sense for officials to have the plan ready for a vote this November, to ensure the greatest number of voters weighed in on a project with tremendous potential impact to all three towns? With all three town clerks and board of selectmen urging the board against the January vote, we're concerned district officials have already created some distrust in the community that must be overcome for the project to succeed. We do take heart at Superintendent Andrew Dolloff's announcement that a committee is being formed to help educate the public on the upcoming vote. This is a project that will require a great deal of very detailed information to be shared so voters fully understand what is at stake.
read more...
Get out the vote
Get out the vote
Residents can now request and fill out an
application for an absentee ballot through their town clerk's office.
Absentee ballots will be available 30 days before the January referendum and can be mailed to an absentee voter at their request.
For more information, or to fill out an application for an absentee ballot, visit your town clerk's office or call 985-2102, ext. 1306 for Kennebunk residents; 967-4243, ext. 110 for Kennebunkport residents; or 985-4201 for Arundel residents.
Absentee ballots will be available 30 days before the January referendum and can be mailed to an absentee voter at their request.
For more information, or to fill out an application for an absentee ballot, visit your town clerk's office or call 985-2102, ext. 1306 for Kennebunk residents; 967-4243, ext. 110 for Kennebunkport residents; or 985-4201 for Arundel residents.
Residents to vote on RSU 21 school renovations in January
KENNEBUNK, Maine – Voters will have their say in
January on the proposed $74.8 million plans to renovate Kennebunk High
School, Kennebunkport Consolidated School and Mildred L. Day School.
The
RSU 21 Board of Directors, during a meeting Monday night, set the
referendum date for Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2014, after accepting the three
projects as proposed — $53.5 million for Kennebunk High School, $9.9
million for Kennebunkport Consolidated School and $11.3 for Mildred L.
Day School.
Approximately 20 residents, town and school
officials and town clerks attended Monday's meeting, with a number
speaking out against holding the referendum vote in January, raising
concerns that residents may go away for the winter or may find it
difficult to reach the polls due to weather or other circumstances.
Friday, October 11, 2013
Citizens weigh in on renovations
Proposed school projects discussed at public forum
Most people who spoke voiced their support, some even encouraging the board to take the measure to a vote in November, before the tentatively-set referendum date in January.
Regional School Unit 21 Superintendent Andrew Dolloff, middle, responds to a question posed by Kennebunk resident Ed Karytko at the public forum Monday evening. The purpose of the forum was to educate the public and to field questions and comments pertaining to the proposed $75 million construction project for Mildred L. Day school, Consolidated School, and Kennebunk High School. (Alex Acquisto photo) “It has been an extremely diligent process to get us to this point,” Regional School Unit 21 Chairman Kevin Knight said at the beginning of the forum.
Hussey, Knight, Superintendent Andrew Dolloff, principals of each of the three schools, along with Harriman Architect + Design contractor Dan Cecil, were present to answer the public’s questions.
“This is an opportunity to provide the school board with additional perspectives as we move forward,” said Knight. “We are not looking to engage in any sort of debate, but we will try to answer all questions to the best of our abilities,” Knight said. “We want to be respectful of each other.”
read more...
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Passionate RSU debate
KENNEBUNK — More than 300 residents filled the auditorium at Kennebunk High School to standing room only Monday to share their thoughts on the proposed $74.8 million renovations to KHS, Mildred L. Day School and Kennebunkport Consolidated School.
During the two-and-a-half hour public hearing before the RSU 21 Board of Directors, residents spoke passionately about the need to renovate the buildings to meet the needs and growth of students and faculty, and most im
"I
was on the verge of being ashamed," Kennebunk resident Zeb Andrews said
of a tour of Kennebunk High School. "If anybody from outside of our
community came into this school and got the tour that I got, I would
certainly be embarrassed. Ask for a tour. It's eye-opening."
A number of residents also passionately argued for and against the RSU 21 Board of Directors' potential plans to put the renovation projects before voters on a January ballot. While the board has not made a final decision on when the projects will go to vote, some on Monday said taking the projects to a January vote "is disingenuous to voters," while others said it's time to move forward.
"This is Maine. Even the people who want to come out and vote in January may have a hard time getting to the polls. We have blizzards, we have ice storms, we lose electricity, all kinds of issues that happen in January," said April Dufoe, town clerk in Kennebunkport, adding that many of the town's registered voters go away for the winter and may not be aware of a January election.
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