Newark School Board meets
By John Zornow

Last night's Board of Education meeting began with public comment and questions from the community and media.

Newark businessman Richard Colacino addressed the board about an incident that occured Monday at Lincoln Elementary School on North Main St. According to Colacino, a boiler flue was unhooked by a contractor, preparing to work on the heating system. The contractor failed to 'lock out' the system, assuming that the heating season was over. School personnel turned the heat on Monday morning, causing the system to send fumes into the building. A heat and fume detecting system, installed as part of the previous remodeling project, sent an alarm to fire headquarters. The school was evacuated until the problem was fixed.

Colacino called this incident an example of sub-standard work that could have resulted in a tragedy. School business Manager Robert Fogel responded that the incident was a blatant error on the part of the contractor, and it was addressed with the contracting firm. Letters were sent to parents explaining the incident.

(See article on this page: Incident at Lincoln.)

Colacino also spoke to the board about the appearance of the school grounds. He described the grounds as depressed, citing piles of rubbish and dirt in parking lots.

In other public comment, a reporter asked what had been done concerning a proposed joint fueling depot to be shared by the school, village, and town. The response was that the plan was being looked at by school attorneys. The board was also asked for reaction to the decision of High School Principal Gary Grant to 'run' for Town Supervisor. The reporter pointed out possible conflicts and the number of hours involved in the supervisor's job, and asked individual board members to comment on this issue. The board members did not respond, but the board president stressed that it was a political issue and that they (the board) could not stop Grant from running for this position.

A presentation was given by a group of students led by Linda Werts. The group described their plan to build a small garden on High School grounds dedicated to the memory of those involved in the Columbine High School tragedy. Werts indicated that the community would be involved in the project, and received the board's approval.

Kate Antonucci, High School Student Council President, gave an update on council projects during the recent months including fundraising. She indicated that the council will sponsor teacher recognition day this year, and is creating a quilt for veterans. Antonucci reported that a Senior Citizen dance would not be held this year, because the Wayne County Office of Aging indicated a lack of interest. Board President Dave Howard praised Antonucci for the job she has done this year as President of the Student Council.

Caitlin Sloane, President of the Middle School Student Council, reported on the coming eighth grade dance, and the collection of photos for a slide show presentation about Middle School activities.

Construction managers for the $47 million school expansion were on hand for the meeting and introduced by the board. LeChase Construction was named by the board on April 30 to act as site managers for the entire project. Lyle Corey, LeChase vice-president, assured that his firm would interface well with the architects, and promised positive communications with students, faculty and the community. Board President Dave Howard indicated that he was confident in that all would work well together.

Board member Dave Honness asked Corey if any schedules would be affected. Corey replied that, in the case of an example as large as the high school project, that this could happen.

In public comment, Dick Colacino stressed the importance of site managers, whom he described as 'clerks of the works.' He went on to say that he would rather see extra time spent on the projects if necessary, for the sake of quality.

Ellie Molnar, a district teacher, commented on last-minute notice of meetings that are held to critique the individual building plans. Molnar indicated that she would like to be a part of the process, but needs proper notice.

School Board candidate Emily Leone asked what steps will be taken to control dust and fumes during the work. The project managers indicated that they are well-versed in the proper steps that need to be taken to control this problem. Dick Colacino asked managers to consider awarding smaller individual contracts that would give the medium-size local contractors a chance to bid on jobs.

Perkins School Bus Loop - Supt. Robert Christmann mentioned concerns by the local historian concerning the proposed Perkins Elementary School bus loop, planned for the front of the building. Several board members commented on this issue. Dave Howard indicated that the loop may be a good idea from a practical standpoint, but questioned if security would be a problem with three entrances in use. The board agreed to re-visit the issue, with board member Jeff Snow saying that if the loop is built, it must be done in such a way that is pleasing to the area in appearance.

In other business:

Ÿ Christmann announced that a $5000 grant has been received by 'Merry Go Round Playhouse' to be used in K-12 programs.

Ÿ The April '99 issue of the National School Public Relations Assoc. magazine will feature a story about Newark and it's Audio-Visual Services co-ordinator Mike Diamond.

Ÿ Discussed and tabled a possible need for a Director of Public Relations to handle building project items.

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