Haines Building Vote Delayed Until After Election

At the last D303 Business Services meeting on March 21, Haines repurposing options A1-A4 were explored. Repurposing Options A1-4 were presented to the board by an ATS&R architect. The options provided variations of program and administrative staff placement in the building. All options varied in cost ranging from $3.7M-$4.7M. Two student programs, Transition and North East Academy, would be housed at Haines. The board was given Transition enrollment numbers and a tour of the current North East academy program is planned for the board to understand the needs of these students. Ms. Waibel and Mrs. Fairgrieve asked for more details in terms of student needs and requested once again for a comprehensive overall district facilities and enrollment plan for the district K-12. This is the 3rd time they have asked for this plan. They also stressed the importance of slowing down the process and looking at the big picture needs before they commit a building entirely to administrative staff and only two student programs. Decisions in isolation of the entire district are short sighted and can lead to future issues.
The public has not seen a proposal or plan from the Park District regarding the space they would like to use at Haines. The Park District has planned to set aside funds $150K to add bathrooms in the hallway by the gym starting in July. Mr. Manheim stated “They (Park District) are clamoring for the space”. Haines is a taxpayer building part of a school district, it is important that an agreement with the Park District be disclosed upfront for the public to know. After a very long discussion it was decided that at the next Business Services the board will continue to discuss Options A1-4.
At the meeting, Mr. Manheim stated that while the current board has put in a great deal of time and thought towards this decision, the new board will make the final decision on Haines. Audio for Business Services Haines 2.21.19. Mrs. Hewell was more concerned with her legacy and that as candidates, Mr. Manheim and herself, should have the opportunity to determine the future of Haines and vote on the project. Mrs. Hewell went as far as suggesting that Business Services meeting be pushed up earlier with an open session right after so they could vote before the new board is sworn in. No comment was made by Mr. Manheim or Mr. Nowling. Both Ms. Waibel and Mrs. Fairgrieve were alone and strong in stating that they do not feel comfortable rushing a decision and that the new board should have an opportunity to make this decision because they will be the ones to execute the project. This discussion will continue among community members on Citizens for D303 Accountability.