Board takes first steps toward new building plan

http://post.mainelymediallc.com/news/2014-03-07/Community/Board_takes_first_steps_toward_new_building_plan.html

By Alex Acquisto

Staff Writer

KENNEBUNK — Compromises were made and ties were severed on Monday night at what was the most productive school board meeting since the Jan. 21 referendum.

The RSU 21 board of directors made three notable decisions Monday: unanimously deciding to keep an elementary school open in each of the three communities in the district; voted not to hire a firm to conduct surveys in each town; and set the starting estimate for renovating Mildred L. Day School, Consolidated School and Kennebunk High School at $55 million — $20 million less than the initial proposal.

“OK, so we’re finally discussing stuff at a board meeting. I think this is positive,” said board member Art LeBlanc at the March 3 meeting that spanned four hours.

Board member Tim Hussey initially asked to set a clear scope of the three projects to make it easier for the facilities and finance committees to address issues as they move forward.

Later, board member Frank Drigotas, reading from his iPhone, proposed the first revision: that the cost of the three combined building projects not exceed $52 million. The board voted down that motion, 7-5. Drigotas also suggested that the board’s proposed renovation project sever its ties with the Southern Maine Visual and Performing Arts Center. 

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