Future Of Milford School Buildings Discussed At Finance Meeting

MILFORD, CT — The Board of Finance voted to approve $5 million in bonds for various school improvement projects for city schools, specifically security and safety upgrades.

But during the meeting, which was held this week, Finance Member Joseph Fitzpatrick Jr. questioned whether any current city school is scheduled to close in the future. Attendance has dipped below 6,000 pupils and it once was more than 7,500 students. Several years ago, Simon Lake School was closed.

The answer was a no from Superintendent of Schools Anna Cutaia.

Here is the discussion from the meeting, according to recently posted meeting minutes.

"Mr. Fitzpatrick asked if schools were to be closed which schools would be affected. Dr. Anna Cutaia, Superintendent of Schools, stated there is no discussion of closing schools at this time. Mr. Fitzpatrick stated he would not want to see capital outlay for schools that will be closed."

Then the topic of Pumpkin Delight School was broached as funds are earmarked for security and renovations there. School officials are seeking $1 million for architectural and engineering fees for Pumpkin Delight and in its capital improvement plan the Board of Education is hopeful to begin a renovation project there in 2020-21.

"Mr. Richetelli stated that whether or not schools are closed Pumpkin Delight is not one that would be closed as schools are needed at that end of town," meeting minutes state.

Of the $5 million that was approved, a bulk of the funds are for security upgrades at several schools. Mayor Ben Blake explained to board members that the city's reimbursement rate from the state dropped from 55 to 38.2 percent.

Some of the funds will be earmarked for safety improvements at Live Oaks School.

Meeting minutes state, "Jim Richetelli explained that more parents are driving their children to school and a parent drop off area is necessary. He explained the way it is today is not safe for staff, student, or parents. ... (Fire) Chief (Doug) Edo stated he supports this request. He further stated that his grandson attends Live Oaks and he has seen the area first hand and it is not a safe as it currently exists. Chairman Lema asked if school personnel help with directing traffic. Mr.Richetelli stated they do have such duties, but people don't always adhere to the rules."

At the end of the discussion, the $5 million request was unanimously approved but the Board of Aldermen also needs to sign off on the request at its February meeting.