ASD Board Directors Propose Stalling Asbestos Removal
Armstrong School District Board Members Chris Choncek and James Solak disagree about the need for asbestos removal this summer at last night's open caucus session.
by Jonathan Weaver
The state education department’s delay on construction projects in our local school district has delayed much more.
Armstrong School District board directors discussed suspending this summer’s asbestos removal in Elderton K-12, Ford City Jr. – Sr. High School and Kittanning Jr. High School at their open caucus session last night.
The move comes almost three months after school construction projects were halted after Sen. Don White (R-Armstrong/Indiana), Rep. Jeff Pyle (R-60) and State Education Secretary Ronald Tomalis filed a request with the Pennsylvania Department of Education for additional public input regarding the projects.
John Rushford, an attorney with the firm of Dodaro, Matta and Cambest that represents the school district, reaffirmed the Act 34 hearing will be held in the Elderton High School gymnasium April 28 at 7PM.
Board Member Chris Choncek first posed the question as to why the asbestos abatement is being considered with the construction projects in limbo.
“Why are we proceeding with the asbestos project when if we didn’t have the renovation project, we would not being doing it?,” Choncek said. “I don’t believe that we would, especially with all the other things that are happening that are going to be impacting this budget – I honestly do not think we would be doing that at this time,” Choncek said.
Board Member Joseph Close agreed.
“If we weren’t going to do renovations, we certainly wouldn’t tear up the floor, tear out pipes with insulation on them – they’re things that you would remove with the renovation – but, you typically wouldn’t disturb those,” Close said.
Board Vice-President James Solak argued that the mold is still toxic and should be removed whenever possible.
“I think regardless of what happens within this district, we need to get the asbestos out of these buildings,” Solak said.
“Asbestos is asbestos…” Solak said.
“But its not a threat until it’s disturbed,” Close continued, “and then it’s a hazard.”
Board President Rose Stitt agreed with Solak.
“It’s a safety issue for Elderton, and we voted on it, so if you want to leave Ford City and Kittanning with asbestos in it, vote ‘no’ next week. Everyone can vote on it how they want to do it,” Stitt said.
L.R. Kimball Architect Brian Hayes said the state deparment of education has indeed approved the removal and can proceed.
“The asbestos abatement is a non-reimbursable project, so whether the Department would approve or not approve the project, you could go forward with that and put that amount of work in,” Hayes said.
Facilities and Property Services Director William Henley also proposed that board directors approve leasing eight modular trailers for at Ford City Jr. – Sr. High School this summer during proposed construction and asbestos removal.
The proposed trailers from William Scotsman, Inc. in Corapolis would cost approximately $209,000 for six months.
Electrical wiring and portable water would also have to be purchased by the district.
Henley said he is viewing the project as planned.
“I’m proceeding as if nothing is on hold because I have not been told to stop,” Henley said.
However, as board directors began getting concerned, Henley justified his position.
“They have those trailers ready to go, but they’re not going to hold those forever, so if the board makes a decision next week to say ‘yes’ and you sign that lease agreement, I could possibly lock him in to hold those trailers until we get a final word from PDE on whether or not we can proceed,” Henley said. “But, there’s no guarantee. I could lose these trailers.
“We have to have things in line that if that trigger is pulled to say ‘OK, we’re ready to go,’ we got to be ready to go,” Henley said.
An estimated 1000 storage boxes are packed at Ford City for removal, Henley said.
“And they’re already boxing at Elderton and Ford City as we speak tonight,” Henley said.
One of those to oppose the lease was Solak.
“I’m not in favor of incurring anymore costs of this type of nature until we hear the outcome of that,” Solak said. “It’s out of our hands. If you’re packing boxes, stop doing it because if we’re going to let the people decide, let them decide it May 17,” Solak said, referring to the upcoming primary election.
While portions of the school projects are indeed on-hold, school directors can proceed with others, including approval of construction documents for the Ford City project, labeled PlanCon F, and approving designs for Kittanning Jr. – Sr. High School, also known as PlanCon E.
Although the board can act on several construction documents, they are waiting for input from surrounding communities, especially Ford City Borough, to move forward.
L.R.Kimball is awaiting approvals from Ford City Borough for utility services, including water and sewage, Peoples Gas to provide additional gas pipes in the school addition and from Codes Enforcement Officer Fred Dzugan, who is the local Code.sys consultant, to approve a building permit.
The Armstrong County Planning Commission members will also meet May 18 to potentially approve the site construction.
Public comment will be limited to three topics, including the current condition, capacity and adequacy of existing schools for present and future use, the need for these projected renovations based on student enrollment and projected costs and ability to afford those costs using taxpayer funding.
Hayes assured school directors proper paperwork to support all three topics has been submitted.
Written testimony can also be submitted to education officials until noon on May 13 to: Pennsylvania Department of Education, Office of Chief Counsel, 333 Market Street, 9th Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17126-0333.
Armstrong School District | jweaver April 19, 2011
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By billbell, April 19, 2011 @ 6:43 AM
Did solak actually mutter the word mold?!! What lying hypocrite.! A year ago or more ago if anyone said anything about mold in FC he would have bitten their face off- ask any teacher, custodian or administrator in that building. So, that black slimy stuff under the tiles on the first floor might actually be harmful now? Maybe some of the teachers who made inquires before should contact their attorneys this time. You mean that smell of sewage in the gym (in your swimming pool) could be a result of mold?????
By Jen16226, April 19, 2011 @ 8:40 AM
Hmmmm.
So Rose and Jim….are you NOW changing your minds regarding mold in FCHS?
http://www.thekittanningpaper.info/2010/09/08/water-authority-says-rumor-not-true-in-elderton/10416
Look toward the bottom of this Sept. 8, 2010 article “Stitt compared this rumor with one earlier in the year about mold at Ford City High School.
“Someone was trying to say there was toxic mold at Ford City High School. We had that all tested and everything was fine. There was no mold. This is once again another rumor that we had to settle. We always insure our children and our staff’s safety first.”
http://www.thekittanningpaper.info/2010/06/24/building-and-grounds-committee-defends-aging-building/8258
And here we have Jim Solak “Dr. Solakfinished the conversation with an address to the public. “I wanted to address those four issues because the parents and the students in the Ford City attendance area as well as District-wide need to know that the comments being made about the balcony, the water situation, the mold, and the crumbling walls are not accurate. I’m sorry for taking so much time, but it’s time to start getting on the offensive in this school district; we’vebeen on the defensive since December. I just think the truth is what it is, and documents reveal the truth. If anybody has anything contrary to what these documents say, then let them come forth with it.”
Not twisting words……just providing quotes where the directors are on record regarding the mold issue……….
By ToddLuke, April 19, 2011 @ 10:45 AM
Telling the truth seems so much easier. Keeping track of all those lies must be exhausting.
By solomon, April 19, 2011 @ 11:01 AM
Asbestos is relatively safe if left undisturbed, but once it begins to crack and crumble, it poses a serious health threat. If there are any problems with the asbestos, it should be removed so that it doesn’t harm the children.
By newvoice, April 19, 2011 @ 1:25 PM
Ford City should seperate from Kittanning all together……You can’t talk to anyone that doesn’t want to listen…..The 6 majority school board members plan will not cause TAX INCREASES…..It’s in black and white…..Answer this question who will benefit from a SUPER SCHOOL?
By ToddLuke, April 19, 2011 @ 1:40 PM
There will be no “SUPER SCHOOL” . We do not have enough students for such a project.
The entire region will benefit from a consolidated effort to educate the youth of the region. Whether they stay or whether they leave, these kids are our heritage and why would anyone want anything less for their future. I would prefer that we reopen Worthington. I would suspect the population is there as compared to other low enrollment schools in the region.
By travismichael, April 19, 2011 @ 2:38 PM
Asbestos removal is a very important process. Inhalation of this toxin can cause serious diseases including asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. Hopefully no tiles or other asbestos-containing materials will be disturbed until the town is prepared to remove this toxin. Regards, TM
By sweetleur, April 19, 2011 @ 2:38 PM
Anything larger than Elderton ( 29 in the graduating class) is a SUPER SCHOOL to these folks.
By Jan, April 19, 2011 @ 2:49 PM
@newvoice- I’m curious as to what you consider a “super school”? If we combined all of the three schools in question, including the junior high students you are talking about 1,908 students. According to statistics, this would constitute a medium size school. My guess is that you feel that 283 students in an entire building is an adequate size for any school.
With that said- there is NO super school planned
unless you count the multitude of times that Solak has mentioned it- hmmm, maybe that’s what he wants….just sayin. You state that the facts are in black and white- really? Remember the saying “figures don’t lie but liars figure”? You fail to realize that duplication of services, i.e. academically,managerially,educators and staff, along with maintaining buildings is a huge cost to any district.Bring in pension plan fund and budget cuts by the state and trust me- there will be increased taxes.This “supposed” free $80M bond isn’t so free- someone is going to pay for this and guess what- it will be the taxpayers.Trust me, we are all listening VERY carefully.
By ASDpayer, April 19, 2011 @ 6:57 PM
It seems pretty clear that the board is now in a state of near chaos. Planning is not taking place. Of course they can claim no tax increase, but the savings would be greater without the renovations. Every day there are reports of other districts laying off teachers and cutting staff. When will we know the cuts that will come to ASD?
And then there is the mold lies. Solak must think that people have no memory. A year ago there was no mold, and today there is. Solak wanted to put to rest the rumors. Bet there was a lot of talk in FCHS today.
In less than a month we get to vote to put this mess behind us.
By Jan, April 19, 2011 @ 8:59 PM
Well, it looks like the judicial system in Armstrong County thinks the ridiculous referendum question was deceitful too. Thank You Judge Valasek!
By crom44, April 19, 2011 @ 9:25 PM
@newvoice
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE if you can get Ford City to seperate from Kittaning do so!!!! I would love to see what would be able to be accomplished educationally without the weight of Dr. “I Live in the past” Solak….If this can be done then Kittanning attendance area would then be free to actually be more concerned with education and less concerned with fighting off educational antiquities and the social identification of glories past.
Not hiding behind a screen name,
Dan Lorigan
Worthington
crom44@hotmail.com
By asdtaxpayer, April 19, 2011 @ 9:51 PM
Study the faces in the picture. A picture is worth a thousand words.
A Super School is not happening. What is a “Super School” How about a “Quality School that offers opportunities for our children’s future?
A new school should happen.
A new school board needs to happen.
My money not being wasted must start.
I am trying to keep this very simple.
Vote them out!!
By Bottomline, April 19, 2011 @ 10:05 PM
I agree with you, ASDtaxpayer, but I want to add MY own to your list….bring the school district together and keep that new school out of West Hills. Let’s do it right!
By Flatstanley, April 19, 2011 @ 10:33 PM
asdtaxpayer you took the words right out of my mouth…the picture at the top IS worth a thousand words”! Have you ever seen a superintendent so disinterested in what is going on in his school district? He is one of Solak’s lackey’s and is along for the ride and the fleecing of the ASD taxpayers and NOTHING more! Maybe, just maybe he will resign when the board flips???!!!! How awesome would it be to get a decent superintendent in place, one that actually knows something about educational programs and community relations! This district needs some healing and intelligent leadership! We can only hope that come election time people will get out and vote and do what is right for our kids and our district! Who is it that sits at the right hand of satan?
Bottomline you are right about wanting to hear the plans of those running but could it possibly be any worse than it already is???
By asdtaxpayer, April 19, 2011 @ 10:39 PM
I agree the new school does not have to be at West Hills. I do not think KT is the greatest location area either. I think that land that is on the hill between Kittanning and FC would be the best spot. It looks like a large area.
It is off the main highway. This is a drawing point. Good Location. Nice view of the surrounding area. You can actually see both huge cities. LOL.
KHS maybe the worst location of any school. The streets of Kittanning would love to see those buses leave the borough.
Are students allowed a 4 day week? Extend the day a little. Add 1.0 or 1.5 hours to the day. How much money could that save? Crunch the numbers there.
By admin, April 19, 2011 @ 10:41 PM
CORRECTION: In this article, it was incorrectly reported that ASD Vice-President James Solak referred to “mold” that should be removed from school buildings. After careful analysis of the actual conversation that took place, the word should have been “asbestos”.
By Bottomline, April 19, 2011 @ 10:54 PM
@ASDtaxpayer
I have always said that the area that you mentioned would be the PERFECT location for a new school. The accessability to all roads is what makes it a great possible site.
I still believe that there is going to be a push by some to locate a school into the West Hills area, and I think this is going to create more turmoil within the district. There is still just too much talk from those “across the river” who look at it as a boom for that one specific area.
We need to remove all these front-door, back-door and side deals and try and bring this district together under the premise of bringing the best education for the children and being fair in regards to the ENTIRE district community. You cannot preach one thing and then do the opposite just because of some people having dollar signs in their eyes.
You have been spot on ASDtaxpayer. Very good thoughts and ideas.
By elderman, April 19, 2011 @ 10:59 PM
Reply to Jan; finally we can agree on something. Yes, we are ALL listening very carefully but so far only hear opposition to the board’s plan to do the renovations. The current board majority, by their planning, actions, and accomplishments have let the voters know where they stand in bringing our district up to date in regard to buildings, finances, and educational improvements. They have clearly demonstrated that they can complete the renovations with the costs of those renovations being paid for, in their entirety, by savings garnered by the board, thus not necessitating a tax increase to pay for said renovations.
Other than unjustly criticizing the board majority, what exactly do the minority board members propose to do in regard to buildings, finances, and education given the circumstances that we are now in? Simply voting against everything to do with the renovations, including “free” grant money that would benefit all ASD taxpayers is no solution or stance. Minority board member Mr. Chris Choncek recently wrote on this blog site: “I trust my prior experience on the board and the resulting decisions I have made will provide the voters with enough information to support me in the upcoming primary election.” And with Mr. Rearic so far not coming forth with a stance other than negativity, then we must assume that Mr. Choncek’s statement stands for the other minority board members. So, let’s look at the (less than) stellar voting record of these two and some of their statements and deeds.
1. The minority board members voted against hiring a busing consultant after years of ASD getting poor state busing audits. This continued so long that the state threatened to withhold busing reimbursement. Mr. Choncek stated that ASD should continue working with the individual busing contractors instead of spending for a consultant. The current board majority voted to hire the consultant and their decision was substantiated with savings of nearly $1 million dollars per year.
2. The minority board members voted for the current ASD teacher’s contract. A contract that many feel is overly generous considered the state of the economy when it was agreed to. Their vote further hurts the taxpayers as it pushes the individual teachers’ salaries higher and will further raise ASD’s commitment to the PSER fund.
3. The minority board members voted against a contract with Family Life TV to do live broadcasts of ASD board meetings. The broadcasts are available over the internet, thus making viewing the meetings available to more viewers. This contributes to transparency for board decisions. Why would anyone vote against transparency to the public???
4. A review of the 2008 ASD board meeting minutes clearly shows that these minority board members (who were then a majority) vigorously pursued building a new high school. Insofar as long range planning and foresight, if they had been successful, ASD’s taxpayers would have been saddled with large tax increases at the very worst time in the economic cycle; just entering a serious economic recession.
5. Mr. Rearic, at the ASD board meeting of July 19, 2010, asked that the Kittanning Sr. High School be renovated and that the Kittanning Jr. High School students be incorporated into the newly renovated and expanded high school. The board majority acceded to his wishes and directed the architects to pursue that project. At the following month’s board meeting, Mr. Rearic informed the board that he was “only kidding.” Only kidding in the process of spending the taxpayer’s money!!!!
6. Mr. Rearic is quoted in a town hall meeting nearly 1 year ago as saying “I was, I am, still am in favor of consolidation.” At that same town hall meeting, Mr. Joe Close, a fellow minority board member is quoted as saying; “Hey, let’s do a fun project and let’s see what it would cost and let’s tell the taxpayers; would you agree to this amount of TAX MILLAGE INCREASE if we were going to build this school?”
I could add other voting record or comments from Misters Rearic, Choncek, or Close but suffice to say, their voting record does not instill confidence. Instead, their voting record raises questions and concerns about their judgment and motives.
Given that we cannot and will not rely on their voting record, we the taxpayers want to know exactly what they plan to do in regard to buildings, finances, and education given the current circumstances in the Armstrong School District? If they cannot or will not answer this question, they should not receive our vote for an ASD board director seat. If they cannot or will not answer this question they have no vision for the future or else they have an agenda that must be kept hidden in order to evade voter rejection.
The same question; “Exactly what do you propose to do in regard to buildings, finances, and education given the current circumstances in the Armstrong School District?” also applies to each and every new candidate who is running for a board seat. Again, if these people cannot or will not answer this question in a public statement then they have no vision for the future or have an agenda that must be kept from the voters for fear of rejection. There are many venues available where these candidates can make their stance public and the taxpayers should demand no less from any candidate who hopes to win their vote. So, Mr. Berdell, Mr. Burford, Ms. Lhote, Dr. Lobby, Mr. Robb, and Ms. Wissinger, please help the voters of ASD decide which candidate they should vote for, not based on silence, but instead upon how you would address the current circumstances we face.
By DANBOY, April 19, 2011 @ 11:44 PM
I wonder who did the careful analyzing??? I stand corrected I got the wrong BOSS HOG!!!!
I betcha when the KP started the Dr Director felt that this would be a great venue to spread his propaganda!! Beats the Horsetrader!! Any second thoughts???
Hey NEW VOICE great idea having FC separate from KITT all together. FC’s current tax base of PPG’s and ELGER’s parking lots would support the school!!!! I for one as a resident of Manor Township would lobby to join with Kittanning.
I am at the point now that I do not care if a consolidated STATE OF THE ART SCHOOL is built in West Hills,East Hills,North or South Hills just get er done!!!!
By jsolak, April 20, 2011 @ 12:34 AM
To the undecided voters who read postings on this site, please consider the following:
1. I never used the word “mold” at Monday’s April 18, 2011 school board meeting. I called the WTYM Talk Show this morning and made them aware of their error printed in the Kittanning paper. I also checked with the reporter and he acknowledged his error. I used the word “asbestos” correctly as it applies to removal from the current buildings this summer.
2.As to the articles in the Kittanning Paper on 6-24-2010 and 9-8-2010 cited above in a posting about mold, the test results showed “no mold” was detected in the areas tested at FCHS. The discussion at these two school board meetings was about mold not asbestos.
3.This is just another example of some of the postings on this site. Some people make comments that are false because of a lack of research, or false because of political motivation, as some of those posted above my posting. ASD documentation (mold test results) and reporter error acknowledgement reveal the truth about my consistent statements concerning differentiation between mold and asbestos.
To the undecided voters who read postings on this site, please consider the following:
1.The current board majority is transparent. Example: Candidates Solak and Stitt voted to televise all school board meetings. Opposing candidates Rearic, and Choncek, along with Close voted no. Voters, whose documented record is what you are looking for in a school director?
2.The current board majority including Stitt, Solak, and Kozuch, along with candidate Karen Wissinger (who has attended ASD school board meetings for 3 years) openly and honestly support renovation of community schools. Oppposing candidates, including Rearic (who, ASD minutes reveal, has missed approximately 25% of ASD caucus and regular meetings) and Choncek say they need more time to make a decision (they have been on the school board for 3½ years)and do not want to do anything “at this time”. Opposing candidates Dr. Paul Lobby and Freeport School District administrator Larry Robb remain silent on their platform. Voters, whose documented record on a platform is what you are looking for in a school director?
3.Candidates Stitt and opponent Berdell are having a debate on April 26, 2011. Candidates Solak, Wissinger, and Kozuch want to debate, in a public forum, opposing candidates Lobby, Robb, and Rearic. I asked Rearic, in public, repeatedly, at last night’s April 18, 2011 ASD caucus meeting, for his team of Lobby, Robb, and himself to debate our team of candidates. He gave no response. I have repeatedly asked on the Talk of the Town radio show for Family Life TV to schedule a debate. None of our opposing candidates have contacted WYTM to do likewise. We await their reply. Voters, whose documented record is what you are looking for in a school director?
To the undecided voters who read postings on this site, I ask you the following:
To summarize, do you want those candidates to represent you (Solak, Wissinger, and Kozuch) who are transparent supporting televised schools board meetings, have an open, honest, and consistent platform of renovation of community schools, and who are confident in their ability to debate and defend their position OR
do you want our opposing candidates (Lobby, Robb, and Rearic) who have neither announced a campaign platform nor, to the date of this posting, accepted our challenge to debate?
Voters of Region 1 including West Kittanning, North Buffalo, Cadogan, Ford City, Ford Cliff, Manorville, Manor TWP, Burrell and Bethel, I ask that you support the team of Solak, Wissinger, Kozuch, and Stitt.
Respectfully submitted,
James A. Solak
By DANBOY, April 20, 2011 @ 6:14 AM
Elderman when you mention the circumstances we face I assume you mean the ABSOLUTE MESS the current board majority Minus five have gotten us into!!
By Bottomline, April 20, 2011 @ 6:34 AM
@Danboy
And that kind of attitude is the kind that is scaring many of the TAXPAYERS. Put a NEW SCHOOL anywhere, just BUILD IT. You may not care where a new school would go, but there are many out here that do. I think we are going to see many people FLIP-FLOP or show their TRUE COLORS when the new school is proposed.
Don’t use a new school for a few to try and make a HUGE financial WINDFALL. As you see, some are already trying to set the next table for the next SERVING. Get ready to say YUM-YUM taxpayers…it is time for the other side to take asdvantage of you. Jimmmy and Rose were the opening act.
By Mike Fichthorn, April 20, 2011 @ 7:28 AM
Team? That is the funniest thing I’ve heard all day. Rose’s next original comment will be her first.
Open and honest? For once, BE HONEST JIMMY. This is all about keeping Ford City open. You’d throw Rose and the rest of your “team” under the bus as long as that moldy..sorry..asbestos filled 100 year old dump in the middle of town remains standing.
There was nothing honest and upfront about re-opening Elderton. Other districts are consolidating and closing ancient empty buildings. You’ve wasted how much money to re-open one.
Good riddance. When you and Rose get voted out, PLEASE release her from that spell she’s under. Otherwise she’ll be following you at Twist and Shout Academy with that blank stare.
Time to go Jimmy. You act has gotten stale and old.
By scott_starr, April 20, 2011 @ 9:08 AM
Mr. Solak:
Once again the half truths are on your part.
Please answer why, when ALL and SUFFICIENT equipment is and was available for ARMSTRONG STUDENTS to televise these broadcasts, you refused to allow this.
Think about the benefits, the STUDENTS interested in production could have experience, the STUDENTS interested in business could have solicited for donations and soldecommercial air time. What en experience for entry into the University.
YOU and the Other REFUSED OPPORTUNITY TO OUR STUDENTS!
2. Your agenda is quite misleading. Can you define a “community school”? During his sworn testimony, before resigning suddenly Mr. Markilinski could not, he called Worthington a “neighborhood school”, what that was he could not define either. Please come out and give the definition of “community school”.
3. Yourself, Stitt and the others as far as I can research never campaigned on spending $80 million dollars for “renovations”. Show me where that information is. However, the evil consolidationists have been open, as it is self evident that consolidation means a new school. What is interesting is that the evil “consolidationists” understand that in this economy and this time it can’t be done.
Mr. Solak, your “platform” has been evident for the last 20 years, as you so eloquently stated that you ignored your family for the sake of ASD. Let’s look at what we have.
1. A curricula which is outdated
2. 3 principals ina school of 280 kids
3. Concern over buildings
4. Overpaying for a Superintendant
5. Borrowing $80 million without approval for construction by the PDE
6. Witch hunts over alleged misallocated money
Finally, why have YOU not responded to my challeng of a debate?
By scott_starr, April 20, 2011 @ 9:13 AM
Finally folks look up the distinguished Business Director Career of our Solcitor Mr. Gary Matta and the now Duquense School District. Take a look at how he hadled a renovation project, one of my favorite quotes was (paraphrasing) when discussing trailers on the site:
These are actually nicer than classrooms.
Take a look at the STATE AUDITOR GENERAL’s report of Duquense SChool District and see what was written.
Solak brought this into our District.
By Jan, April 20, 2011 @ 9:34 AM
I want to address several statements made by Elderman and Dr. Solak-(or one in the same). Choncek,Rearic and Close voted NO to a contract with Family Life TV because the district has a TV production set up at KJHS- which easily could have been used rather than spending additional tax dollars on an outside contractor.
The current board majority can believe in community schools- many of us do when it is fiscally responsible to do so. However, when we see that keeping these schools open is NOT fiscally responsible (283 students at EHS)then it is time to step back and make responsible decisions on how best to EDUCATE our students in a fiscally sound manner. Making rash decisions on keeping schools open is NOT responsible- it’s just plain STUPID. Knowing that this district is facing large decreases in education funding ($5.5M) and the Pension Plan fund pay back is NOT responsible. You continually vote to maintain all these schools when common sense should tell you that as a county (with 9.2% unemployment and a large senior citizens population and NO growth in this county) we can no longer afford all these small schools. For the love of God, how can you honestly believe that re-opening a school with 283 students (7-12) is acceptable, responsible management? You (Dr. Solak) continually make a mockery of school board meetings by monopolizing meetings with your ranting and twisting of facts. You hear one voice- and that is YOURS.We are ALL more than ready not to hear that voice as it is unreasonable and deceitful. What we need are people who have respect for others and open to exploring options and possible solutions to this on-going debate on BUILDINGS! What we NEED is to explore options that will benefit the EDUCATION of our children while being fiscally responsible to the taxpayers.What you have done is act in a totally irresponsible manner. Your record (for the record) has been a very long run in keeping YOUR OWN personal agenda alive: flip-flopping students with total disregard for the educational system- let’s take a look at this: Armstrong Central: a lot of money was spent to merge Kittaninng and Ford City ( notice- no mention of buildings)only to be closed 2 years later- again spending a lot of taxpayer dollars because it didn’t suit your personal agenda. Elderton was closed and then re-opened- again, at a cost to the taxpayers of this district. How many times will this happen Dr. Solak- how many times should students be flip-flopped around with total disregard for what is best educationally and fiscally?
If you want to be totally transparent Dr. Solak- why don’t you tell the good people of the ASD how proposed staffing reductions to balance the budget this year will benefit the education of our students. From what I’m hearing, 25-29 positions are being considered for reductions. Most of these are secondary teaching positions. It’s interesting given that you hired 32 teachers when you re-opened EHS, along with additional administrators (3 at EHS). Will those positions be cut too? So explain to us Dr. Solak how these reductions will improve education in this district while you and your cohorts spend, spend,spend on underutilized buildings…and speaking of spending: How about Dr. Chapps contract? A man with 3 years of experience- making more money than the past superintendent who had 12 years of experience- at what cost will you stoop to find a puppet who will be your “yes-man”? Based on calculations- Dr.Chapp’s contract for 5 years will yield a whooping $900+K salary, including all the other perks he’s getting, such as $2500. annually for having a doctorate? What about Dr. Williams- he’s being paid $550/day?
To the undecided voter: how much are you willing to take out of your wallet to pay for this reckless spending to support Dr. Solak’s personal agenda that has NOT altered for many years. We are all trapped in his time warp. It’s time for change- it’s time for responsible decisions to be made that will benefit ALL students in the ASD. Voters of Region 1-including West Kittanning, North Buffalo, Cadogan, Ford City, Ford Cliff, Manorville, Manor TWP, Burrell and Bethel: if you are ready to take this district back and provide quality education, vote for Rearic,Lobby and Robb.Those in Region 2: vote for Choncek and Lhote and in Region 3: vote for Stan Berdell.
By Mike Fichthorn, April 20, 2011 @ 10:35 AM
J Solak. What we are looking in a school director is someone who doesn’t have one agenda and refuses to see fact and logic.
You and only you recruited Mike Markilinski for another vote on your “Save FCHS” platform. He didn’t even live in the district. His shady business dealings are still being unraveled. YOU brought THAT circus to the board. I hope the undecided voters remember that fiasco and also remember that he was your puppet before Rosie was.
When Waratuke stepped down, you called my wife and asked her to consider running. You thought she was all for community schools and would be a vote in your pocket.
The undecided voters need to see that Rearic, Lobby and Robb are going to fairly assess the situation and attempt to do what is right and fair FOR THE ENTIRE DISTRICT..not just support their own agenda, regardless of the lack of common sense or cost to the taxpayer. GOODBYE JIMMY!!!!
By worthingtonman, April 20, 2011 @ 10:39 AM
Oh Jimmy, Jimmy,Jimmy, desperate times apparently call for desperate actions. You complain of roadblocks, what about all the roadblocks put in front of the West Hills Intermediate School. I guess what was good for the goose is now not good for the Gander. You are completely disconnected to what the tax payers want. If you REALLY gave a crap about what they wanted you would have placed the renovation project on the ballot for a referendum. As you can see by the poll on this blog, you can not even muster up 25% of those polled.
The undying love affair that several of the board members have about their high school is mind boggling to me. My daughter was the fourth generation of my family to graduate from Kittanning High School. And you know what,my daughter was robbed of the type of education she could have had if we were not buried in the stone ages of education. I feel a concerned parent would be more concerned about the type of education their student gets rather than how pretty the building is.
And to the undecided voters reading this blog. I went to school with Mrs. Lhote and Mr. Robb. Both are highly intelligent and the kind of concerned parents that really are concerned about the education their children get, not how big the gym and cafeteria are.
Attention Undecided taxpayers.. This board knows that the renovations would not have been approved, that is why it did not go on the ballot. Don’t buy into any of the convoluted half truths desperate politicians will try to scare you with.
By worthingtonman, April 20, 2011 @ 11:48 AM
Oh yeah Jimmy in the spirit of your transparent , honest Board Majority, please answer one question here and now…
Why will you NOT put your marvelous renovation projects on the ballot for referendum. You come to the blog and post and read, so please for the undecided voters explain to them why their opinion on a new school is so important to you that you will waste taxpayers fighting to get a referendum on the ballot to build a new school, yet refuse to put one for the renovations. Does that mean you care about their opinion only when the issues suit you? We will all be holding our breaths and waiting for your answer. And in the spirit of your referendum, if you do not answer the question, we will just assume that you really just do not care.
By asdtaxpayer, April 20, 2011 @ 6:20 PM
Why would anyone go out and get an 80 million dollar loan to invest in 3 separate projects going on at the same time?
Then when you look at the schools it just makes you wonder is Ford City High School worth that much?
Since the building is a County Treasure it must have some sentimental value to someone. Right.
Dr. Solak I propose that you purchase the building and you can do whatever you want with it. I know I do not want any of my money into that structure.
Dr. Solak you need to get one of those loans you worked hard to get for the ASD. This is the best time to get these types of loans correct. LOL. I think as taxpayers of the ASD we will ask 30 million for that building. We will sell it to you as is!!!!
You can do whatever you want there Dr. Solak. Renovate? Swim? Fish? Remove asbestos? Build balconies in the auditorium? Stare at basketball banners from 30 years ago? Sit outside on the sidewalk and just look at it?
It can be all yours. We can negotiate.
Rose same thing for EHS. Only 17.5 million for it though.
Let us know!!
By DANBOY, April 21, 2011 @ 7:34 AM
asdtaxpayer:
Darn you are good!!! What vision!! Go buy your houseboat then everyone in the district can vote for you. Good luck trying to find somewhere to dock it!!!! Maybe ADMIN should ask you to be on TV!!!
By asdtaxpayer, April 21, 2011 @ 11:30 PM
I am going to build community schools on all the islands along the Allegheny between Kittanning and Ford City. I may branch off and obtain a riverboat and station it in the cove. I will also use Crooked Creek as well.
I need to first get a definition of what a community school is. Is there an individual out there with an answer for me?
I am still working on the grand plan but I think I can make it work. I have to do a couple of studies first. Who can I get to do that study for me?
By tipiguy, April 24, 2011 @ 3:37 PM
Now that Stitt and Solak have just been made aware of the dangers of asbestos and that it must immediately be removed, what about KT, Lenape Elem., Kittanning JR high, etc. What about other ASD Schools and buildings? You state that it must be removed regardless of renovations. Are you going to have it removed from all schools or just the school you plan to renovate?
By worthingtonman, April 24, 2011 @ 7:36 PM
@JSOLAK..Myself and the undecided voters are still waiting for the answer to my question Jim.. why will you not put the question of renovations on the ballot as a referendum?? why will you not answer this question?? You are always so quick with answers. I find your silence on this issue to be quite interesting. answer the question Jim. the undecided voters want to hear your answer. we all know you read the blog.
By mcfee, April 24, 2011 @ 9:07 PM
asdpayer: I believe if you contact the former Super Dr. Kerr, I am sure he would be more than willing to recommend someone to do your study(ies) for you. He was quite fond of them during his tenure.
By crom44, April 24, 2011 @ 9:31 PM
Jim Solak,
You have been asked several questions by voters. As worthingtonman states, you read the blog. ANSWER THE QUESTIONS!!
Not hiding behind a screen name,
Daniel P. Lorigan
crom44@hotmail.com
By dee, April 25, 2011 @ 4:52 AM
@tipiguy
Good point.
By Jan, April 25, 2011 @ 7:38 AM
@mcfee:
Thank you so much for pointing out the importance of studies when dealing with such a large district!
You see- that’s what a good administrator does.You don’t rush in to anything blindly without looking at the facts and numbers. Our current “super” is more than willing to do what he’s told, speak when he’s told to and make a lot of money doing nothing. He’s just what the “doctor” ordered.
By tjkirgin, April 25, 2011 @ 3:37 PM
It’s true….asbestos and mold can prove harmful, especially to young children. It should not be left unattended. Try Paragon mold removal for professional and safe removal.