By NATE JONES
The Wellington News
Old Middle School
The USD 353 Board of Education is down to one suitor for the old Middle School property. A deal is in the works with Cohen-Esry Affordable Partners who put a $250,000 offer on the table last month. The Wellington Recreaction Commisssion has pulled out of viing for the old Middle School and its hopes of turning it into a new Wellington Rec Center.
What we know
Cohen-Esry has plans to rennovate the old Middle School building and making it an apartment complex for people age 55 and over. Using historical tax credits and other funding avenues, the firm will restore the building from top to bottom. Organizations that currently use the facility will continue to have access once the process is completed.
What’s next
The school district and perspective buyer are working on the detials of the sales contract. Issues such as parking during sporting events and locker room usage still need to be ironed out.
“My feeling is he wants to get the money part down then we’ll work on the other,” Superintendent Rick Weiss told the B.O.E. “But we’ll find out.”
Saving money
Times are lean for every school district in the state. As the legislature puts a strangle hold on school funding, every cent coming into the district is as vital as having a drop of water in the desert. USD 353 recieved some good news from Steve Shogren from George K. Baum and Company. The district is going to save roughly $40,000 per year for the next four years.
What we know
Shogren spoke to the Board Thursday night about the complex process by which district dollars and tax payers money will be saved. Shogren sought board approval on the resale of 2001 and 2002 bonds- the board approved 6-0. At present value the savings is about $157,000 over the next four years. The bonds recieved an A grading which is “very, very good,”Shogren said.
What’s next
The A rating is subject to constant review and can be up or down graded at anytime. Investers who rated the bonds were very impressed with the professionalism of the districts administration. Next a transcript will be submitted to the Attorney General. Shogren said the issue should be a done deal come the first of April.
School days set
Spring break is definitely at the forefront of most students minds, however it’s time to look ahead. The 2010-11 school schedule has been outlined. Superintendent Rick Weiss presented the schedule to the Board of Education Thursday night during the March meeting. Before spring break has a chance to start, students can circle August 24 on the calender for the first day of school.
