Aug
10
Weekly Recap
August 10, 2007 |
- How did you do in your American Idol audition? I think Simon and Co. will like my Ice Ice Baby performance.
- Does it seem like there’s a shortage of rentals in town? With all the ethanol guys in town for the next year and a half or so, I think there’s some money to be made. Does anybody have a spot available?
- The Hawks are ranked 42nd in the first football poll of the season. Any predictions for the year?
It’s bachelor party weekend. Take care of Stuart while I’m gone. I’ll see you Sunday night after the races.
Comments
254 Comments so far
Any news on last nights council meeting? I heard that Peggy Schlichter, Char Greenback, Dotti Karadi (sp) and Marlis Beeler are trying to stop the council from building the bath house. Way to go ladies I am sure the kids thank you. Too bad you have to take out your frustrations for Carol out on the kids. If you hate the council so much then run for council and quit complaining.
6:11 You heard? Why the hell don’t you get your facts straight! They are not in favor of spending tax money on a walking trail when there are more serious issues to be addressed in this town.
Is this the infamous walking trail heading East to the site that has failed to pass for a school bond?—–6 times??
12:36. I guess you ladies do read this blog. What I h e a r d, was Peggy turned in a petition stating both the trail and the bath house. I didn’t know they were both connected. Maybe my facts are straighter than you think. Isn’t it amazing how different it sounds when the whole story is told.
3:42 I beleive the trail is within the athletic complex everyone keeps talking about for a school site, but thanks for the dig anyway I am sure it makes you feel better. Have a great day.
just b/c some of these ladies are too fat to use the pool or walking trail, why not allow the rest of us to have one?
I thought the walking trail was going to go out and around the edge of town. I just heard it mentioned last weekend when I was back.
5:10 this is 3:42. Apparently you are very thin skinned about something. Facts and opinions are allowed on here whether you like or agree with them or not. Not just what you say is so or agree or disagree with. Also, 6:28 evidently understood things the same way I did. I’ve heard nothing of a trail within the athletic complex. Perhaps you can enlighten us further. Have a quality evening.
I was under the impression that Phase I of the recreational trail would be around the athletic complex.
The proposed portion of the trail out to the “east site” was a later phase, just like the other proposed trails around town.
Personally, I think that a trail around the complex is a great idea.
You are right, Broman.
Personally Tod, I think you ought to install a sidewalk in front of your property.
marlis semlls like urine.
The petition was concerning both the bath house and walking trail but people were not told all this when asked to sign the petition.
Phase 1 on the trail has always been around the athletic complex. Come see the map at city hall.
The sidewalks were an issue in 12-15 yrs. ago and nothing got done then. Why is is such a big issue now?
MARY HAS OUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS! ALERT! PLEASE HELP US STUART! HELP!
6:44, the only location I’ve heard about for phase 1 was around the athletic complex. Where’ve you been? If you are going to argue against something you really should know all the facts.
Why do I have a feeling that the people who signed this petition are good friends of Peg, Marlis, Mary, Dodi, etc. and it doesn’t reflect the REAL public opinion. Anyone can get a survey (or petition) to reflect what they want by only asking certain people to contribute.
I call BS on the petition.
i hear she did her own mom with a plunger
Is it for the bathhouse or trail? I’m lost.
6:44 may not have had the facts straight, but they sure pulled someones’ string, huh 10:29? And btw, you call this a debate? So let me get this straight, are you saying the first phase would be around the athletic complex? Hmmm, does that go into the land that’s being talked about for a possible school building site? Just wondering, before someone gets their panties in a bunch. But I do support the site South of the baseball field for a school site. So if that’s the means to eliminate that site for a school then it will be repeatedly brought up when the board stuffs a bond issue with the site out at their favorite place—East of town. It will be used over and over to show the ‘I want this, to Hell with you’ mentality of those who won’t budge on anything. So I guess I won’t budge on voting NO for a school at the East site. If what I said is true, and the walking trail goes thru there, you must think people are dumb. That’s the ultimate insult to many. So go ahead and do it. Then blame everyone but a few who have to have a school out East. 10:29 you’re so smart, tell us how it is! And why did you just come down on 6:44?
Because they mentioned your dear, I want site, right? If you’re that thin-skinned as they mentioned, then get prepared to be upset 24/7 when a bond issue gets proposed for the East site.
Amen, 6:26. If that’s their plan, then there will never be a school built. I don’t care how long this walking trail has been in the works. They can’t help but know several have mentioned a site South of the athletic complex as a building site. Vote NO NO NO NO NO for any construction on the East site. I’m from South of Stuart and it makes no sense whatsoever to build there. I’m assuming if the walking trail can be built around the athletic complex then that land is available South of there and more suitable than anyone is letting on. Shoot yourself in the foot townspeople. You’re really good at it. And you complain about farmers’ complaining. Why isn’t there sidewalks in town? Answer, they’re expensive. But it’s OK for some to pay a ton to support the towns and schools and others to skate by. I’ll gladly pay what I owe for a new school, but not East of town.
I don’t know how clear that has to be made.
South of which baseball field??? If you mean south of the HS baseball field, the walking trail does not go through this land. The trail goes just south of the t-ball field. Then it heads north running along the east side of the HS field. That great land south of the HS baseball field (that always floods during a hard rain) is not touched. Look at the trail map and see for yourself.
And this town will never pass a school bond issue because of ignorant people like you.
I think you need to look at the walking trail map before you make any comments about where it goes. Most of the bloggers do not have it right.
The site by the athletic complex has issues with the soil and that is why it is not considered. This has been discussed alot also.
So, if you do not like the East of town site, do some research and find an alternative site that would work. As far as I know, the athletic field area site has been ruled out because of soil and should not be brought up again. But, another site would be considered.
I for one would like to see this soil study. And as far as it flooding during a hard rain, I can’t see evidence of that. Such as grass laying one way, washing, sedimentation, gullies cut, etc. If it floods that bad, there would need to be berming, rip rap, and probably a silt basin. Throw the East site at us and get a NO again. Up to whomever, I guess I’m one of the ignorant ones until shown different.
8:09 It’s people like you who live to call someone names that’s the reason this DISTRICT will never pass a bond issue. You slipped up there person! It’s all about Stuart isn’t it?
It’s all about getting your own way and not really caring what anyone else thinks. Just pass it and don’t question, because you are all ignorant bastards if you don’t live in Stuart. I’m sick of people like you and I agree with the last post. If that floods so bad where’s the signs of it? Wow, TOWN!! Shows just what really is going on!
Flood or not (and I’ve seen the amount of water that flows through there with my own eyes), the statement about the walking trail cutting through the land south of the high school ballfield is completely false. Which means the statement about the walking trail being used to disallow the school from using this land for future facilities is completely inaccurate and a sign of your ignorance.
Your NO vote frustrates me, but it’s not me you’re hurting or sticking it to.
In case you haven’t noticed. The city spent a good deal of money last year to install drainage south of the field. I’ve seen no evidence of excessive water since then. Try again with another excuse. I will not vote for the east site.
So propose the land (that doesn’t have excessive water according to you) to the school board. And while you’re at it, please explain to everyone why the east site is unacceptable (other than political reasons).
If its all about Stuart as some like to say, why does Stuart have so little to show for all the power they supposedly wield? Could it be that there are some in the district who want nothing more than to see Stuart have nothing? Its obvious why nobody wins with the political games being played on all sides.
Why not the east site???
The reasoning behind the East site not being the right fit has been hashed and rehashed. It’s clear that’s what you want(the East site), so vote for it when the near-sighted board and supt. bring it before the public again. You have only one vote as well as do I, it just is a matter of if YOU want a bond to pass or not. Or rather, when it fails again, to blame everyone for being ignorant. I want a bond to pass and construction started on a new HS ASAP. DO YOU? It seems there is always an excuse to go back to the East site, why is that? To address another poster 12:21. You apparently didn’t know about the town spending money on drainage, yet you have the audacity to call others ignorant. Their are plans for a walking trail out East aren’t their? At least that person was part right. You logically in your inocuous way were wrong on both parts. So whom does the ignorance belong too? Your perniciousness just elevates your desperation to total awareness. The school belongs in Stuart, no one is fighting that. So tell me also, about the amount of water that goes down there. I just drove down there not 2 hrs. ago and there is no sign of heavy water or much at all having moved thru there besides normal surface water from the immediate area. I thought the soil survey was for the ground South of the soccer field. I could be mistaken but that’s what I had thought. I too would like to see that soil analysis. My wife and I plan to vote NO if the bond is for the East site.
We have a winner for “Best Use of a Thesaurus” with innocuous and perniciousness.
My family recently moved to this district, and I believe I am asking a legitimate question, “Why not the east site?” In all seriousness I am asking a genuine question to make a better opinion myself.
LOL, Nate! 4:08 you can go back and read earlier posts from other updates that Nate has posted. There are many and you can get a feel for things, I believe. I’m speaking for my husband, myself and my elderly parents in saying you can count on 4 NO votes if the bond issue is for building on the East site.
4:08 this is 4:19. I hope I’m not being naive in believing you when you say you’ve just moved here. You seem to have found this blog already. I have to tell you I am wondering.
4:21 I believe that was an excellent read of the poster. They asked why the East site wasn’t good, but didn’t ask why we wanted the site South of the baseball field. Plus they posted so they know how the blog is set up. I believe most of us are wary enough anymore of being trapped and/or reeled in by those trying to get someone to say something so they can jump all over them, call them names and do their best to degrade them. Say something we really don’t mean and do their best to make another they don’t agree with look foolish. My wife and I will also be voting NO if the site is the East one. Put it South of the baseball field and we will also like many, vote Yes immediately.
The land south of the baseball field belongs to two different owners (not the City). Phase I of the proposed walking trail would go around the athletic complex that the City and the school district jointly own and not private property.
I do believe that the soil survey taken was on the land south of the soccer fields.
There are distinct advantages to having the HS bordering the athletic complex, but I just wonder if there is enough land south of the baseball field to accomodate a HS.
Whoa nellie..
That land south of the soccer fields was a dumping ground for the railroad. Basically a dumping site, and no way should it be considerd for a building site the needs of such a large project as the school. Ask any old timer from Stuart that knows the history and they’ll tell you that.
This will start some barking, I can already hear it. But to preface things, how many now that there is an elevator in Redfield? Now, my point being. What’s to say a new school has to be on one level? Iknow elevators and ADA facilitations are very expensive(and necessary), but would the less roof area and upkeep of a smaller roof offset those expenses? Perhaps be able to keep the classroom roof area the same level as the gymnasium? That would make upkeep of the roof much easier and much less costly I’m thinking. I know that roof upkeep seems to be a major expense periodically and in a house building up is much cheaper than building out with the extra roof area. Now you can have at me. I expect it. I simply will not vote for the construction of anything at the East site either, as others have been saying. My idea would be for no more than two levels.
I have no problem with two levels, elevators are sure an option. The weight of two levels are totally impossible on the area south of the soccer fields. Totally impossible within our districts budget.
Did any one bother to go to the workshop last night and hear what Rambo and associates had to tell the board? I did and this man knows what he is talking about. First we need to get 1 person to run the bond and not the super as that is not his expertise. 2nd he told them how to use the money they have available to them and how much more they could do with it. 3rd he told them in his opinion it would not be a wise financial move to put a lot of money is the current HS for an elementary. While he did say that their is a lot of positive things with the current building he also said their is just as many negatives with the building. The board meeting is tonight and I bet Arnie has been talking all day to the forces of the boys in Stuart. I also bet you that the board goes another direction and builds on the east site and DOES spend an enormous amout of money fixing the current building for a elementary. They never listen to the pros just the one who wants to be a pro. ARNIE!!
Putting $$ in the current HS building for an elementary school, hope so, it is the best decision available. Deal with that and recognize that the board has spent exhaustive hours studying this very subject. We as voters and taxpayers voted in this board both west and east and it is time to let them work. Back off…. let them work. Watch, and let them work…
To all the people telling us you’ll vote NO NO NO and more NO’s if the east site is chosen again, why are you afraid to explain your reasoning against the east site? If you’re so sure about your vote, the answer should be an easy one for you. Have some courage. Heck, you don’t even need courage when you can post anonymously.
To those with alternative site ideas, speak up and tell us why those sites are better suited than the east site (or have a better chance of passing a bond vote).
If you’re too afraid of what others will say if you give the reasons for your opinions, maybe a blog is not the right outlet for you.
If you oppose the east site because you’re tired of failed bond attempts, that’s an understandable opinion.
So what’s wrong with the physical characteristics of the east site that make it a poor site for a school building?
Any takers on providing reasonable answers to reasonable questions?
FORGERY CHARGES ARE BEING INVESTIGATED BY THE CITY OF STUART FROM A PETITION FROM PEGGY SCHILICHTER. ARE YOU COVERING THIS NEWS STORY?
thats identity theft. she sure did herself in.
Forgery? For what?
For signing people’s signatures to a petition. Wher have you been, ‘Niqua?
I haven’t heard anything about this. That’s a pretty big assumption you are making. Where did you hear this?
i heard it uptown in johnies. she forged a bunch of names of prominent people in town. it is *supposedly* being investigated by the stuart police department. who knows if any arrests will be made. im not sure of much else. all i know is that the petition is bad.
interesting
Nobody has mentioned anything at Ruby’s tonight.
you’d probably go running to report back to peg.
that’s why it was heard at JOHNNIES.
you know what, I like the trail around the sports complex, if the booster club would raise money for it, people donate, and they school chip in. And the girls are not trying to STOP! the bathhouse, only trying to get the proper money that was supposed to be used for it, Namely LOST (local option sales tax) instead of putting it on the property taxpayers back and increasing their payments when there are so many other needs they would like to see their taxes pay for. Have you seen the current bathhouse? Wonder how it got in such bad condition?? Lack of care? Maybe?
The girls are potentially in a lot of trouble. I wouldn’t want to be having any charges such as forgery or identity theft against me.
Hi Big T. See you are trying to start trouble by accusing someone falsely. Didn’t you learn your lesson yet. You other people should recognize the source of this entertainment. Sad isn’t it and not even old enough to go in the bar.
you are more focussed with what the “girls” want and don’t want? aren’t you concerned about what they are accused of? if this is true, it’s very serious and makes me question everything the “girls” have said and done up to this point.
hey taylormaid what are you doing in california? your either mr. taylor or his daughter who owns taylormade web creations. this i know because i have my insurance through shaw belden and taylormade created their site.
Guess you weren’t at the council meeting Taylormaid. I wasn’t either but heard it all from a council member.
I believe the young Tyler was proven innocent.
Last I knew my name didn’t start with a T and I was over 21. I wish I wasn’t and could totally be 20 again but… alas, I can’t turn back time.
Trying to throw the scent off from the lunies like Schlick in town? Nice try, but I heard it all already.
8:14 LMAO The board has spent exhaustive hrs. listening to Arnie is what they’ve done. Rambo is the expert. They should be paying attention to them. As far as I know his reputation would be at stake telling something completely wrong. He is an outsider not involved in the politics and the forces pulling him one way or the other. We elected them to do their job alright. Watch and let them work?? We’ve been doing that!! Look at last time! $13+ mill.! What a crock. I think they need to be watched alright, just not in the way you mean. And another poster is right, Arnie will run the show again and listening to someone else’s ideas isn’t on his agenda. Because he is GOD, haven’t you figured that out yet? As far as the drawbacks to the East site go back and read, it’s not worth spending half an hr. telling all the downsides, the biggest of which is it has already failed 6 times. Do you REALLY want a new school? You supporters of the East site? I really am beginning to wonder if the site takes total precedent over getting a school built. I want one and NOW! And the East site isn’t the place for it!! How many times does it have to fail? H-O-W M-A-N-Y T-I-M-E-S? The two level idea is kind of growing on me to be truthful. I believe that may be the way to go. But there may be drawbacks not being seen. I do know heat rises and should be less duct work. A/C would be less runs but a bigger fan/unit to push the cold air maybe. I’m no expert, just talking. The other petition stuff, I don’t know anything about. It sounds like a mess, though.
9:59 Please quit harping on wanting people to explain why the East site is bad. Go back and spend some time reading earlier posts. As mentioned before, we can see a trap or a set-up anymore. If you don’t want to spend that time going back and reading, then don’t expect anyone to take their time and repeat things for you. As far as the other sites, they were explained too. Your post is just merely trying to be a trap to get a name calling string going. As far as the other posts concerning Rambo, why not listen to the man? He has the expertise and has a reputation to uphold. I have to agree, and I’m a Stuart area farmer, that putting a lot of money in the old HS doesn’t really make a lot of sense if you step back and look at it. I too like the two level idea, I applaud the person who thought of it. I like it more and more the longer I think about it. I agree about the water situation there. It’s not a problem anymore. I know first hand what a lot of water moving does to land and there hasn’t been a lot of water moving over that area. Old timer, I sure appreciate you chiming in. I don’t think with a two level that area South of the soccer fields would have to be used. If for anything, maybe parking. But I believe that could be done even with it being an old dump. Not sure, so don’t quote me. The soil analysis seems to be classified information. As far as the petition goes, I can hardly wait for it to make the DesMoines newspaper. Geesh, it’s always something. So 9:59 and those like you, I suggest you go back to earlier updates and posts and get filled in, if that is truly what you want. I repeat myself, but it’s easy to spot a trap anymore. So give it your best effort, but I highly doubt anyone is going to fall into your little plan. One misspoken word or phrase and it will be taken the wrong way and jumped all over. Plus why should anyone have to repeat what has already been posted many times?
7:51, Boy did you nail it. Arnie probably spent the night so he could get up first thing and go to work on the powers that be!! He’ll get his way. He’ll get another defeat and it will be some hate group again that caused it. 8:14, what have you been smoking? Exhaustive hrs.? If true, then it is also true the board meetings ARE actual scams and just a formality with the results already predetermined. The problem is we have been watching!! I hardly call 1/2 hr. meetings exhaustive hrs.!! So if the subject has already been discussed and a decision made that is truly against the law. Lock em up and let some people in there who will deal with Arnie. He is to suggest and advise, not set policy or tell what to do. Where do I sign up for these exhaustive hrs.? ROFL!!
Sorry, but I have to say I agree with Orange Peel. It’s pretty obvious when people are trying to trap others. If they truly are that lazy or busy to go back and read, then they must be putting in those exhaustive hrs. as well. I also like the two level idea. I think it would look really nice in the setting South of the baseball field. And anyone who says that water is a problem there is smoking something too. We’ve had some big rains this spring and summer and I challenge anyone to show me the damage the runoff did. The pros for that location outweigh the cons so much it isn’t even a contest. Only the cons trying to sell the East site as the one for building on are the ones at work. Sell it, for sure!! To the highest bidder!!
It’s funny how you put down the school board members but I read in the paper that there are three seats open and all three incumbents are running. However, two of these incumbents are running UNOPPOSED ! ! ! ! The one incumbent that is not unopposed has ONE other person running. If they are doing such a terrible job, why is no one willing to run against them? Good job school board, keep on task and get this thing done!
Isn’t it obvious that Stuart is the problem everytime concerning the school district. I think it is time to vote on concurrent action and kick Stuart out of the district. Menlo, Dexter and Redfield don’t need them anymore.
LOL. Go ahead! Kick Stuart out. We have all the kids anyway and can totally stand on our own - unlike the other 3 towns. You’ll be doing us a favor. Thanks for the suggestion!
maybe peg’ll donate her bail money to the school!
confused. I’m confused why 6 bond issues have failed if the board is doing such a great job.
Has to be all of us ignorant people, who elected them that’s the problem. Stay on task board like you have and you have no one or no group to blame but yourselves for there not being a new HS in Stuart.
i’ve just been skimming and ran across ‘old timer’ post that says site was dumping site for the railroad. What did they dump? Clinkers? Water? The soccer fields are built where the turn around for the maintenance building was. Look at the map in the Stuart history book. Did you know in Des Moines, the built a very large housing development where all the city dumped the clinkers from coal burners, and over by the river where the old target store was built on Douglas was the city dump site. The arguments don’t hold water. The shrink/swell of soil referring to the fact that large cracks form during dry spells holds true for my area as well as a lot of lots where homes are built. Just more trying to make excuses, and who knows what is in the ground where farming occured and chemicals were used.
If that’s what the soil tests or survey showed then it doesn’t surprise me they are trying to not publicize it. They know it is a crock and now that the water situation is under control there’s no reason not to build South of the athletic fields. I’m telling everyone I see to vote NO on that East site. There’s no reason for a building NOT to be built South of the baseball fields and now apparently the soccer fields. If this is the deciding factor to deem this soil not viable then someone needs to be put thru the ringer. Vote NO for the East site, sell it, build and build NOW South of the athletic fields. Elected by the people school board, come in with revised downward money figures, $90/sq.ft/ and build where it makes sense. Not where some of the power brokers and the ?????? Supt. want it. Build it South of the athletic fields and it will pass.
Don’t think Stuart will ever listen so kick ‘em out of the district.
Not to stir up a hornet’s nest, I just wonder whether the land south of the baseball and little league field would be large enough for a high school and the parking that will be needed?
Yes, it would be a good location and a 2 story structure would work, but you must remember to include a large gym and locker rooms, a music wing, wrestling & weight room AND room for a future auditorium.
Also, the land in question is owned by two different people, so just one person could drag his heels and make it difficult to purchase it.
One thing that I think the new building should include would be a geothermal heating/cooling system which would save the district $$ and eventually pay for the system.
One last comment, the current school board was not involved with all six of the previous failed bond issues. Faces have changed over the years, so you cannot blame the 7 current people for the failures of all issues.
Please someone explain to me, where are you going to put the waterway that is currently south of the athletic fields?? Do you propose they be moved?
The faces on the board have changed but the people behind the bond remains the same.
The people behind the vote NO for everything remains the same too. So no side will budge on a compromise, no school will be in our children’s future. Time to dissolve the district like anonymous 6:11 said.
everyone posted here is a idiot
I believe the waterway is a minor problem. By all appearances it doesn’t move as much water as lots think. There sure isn’t evidence that it does. It could be between the new school and the baseball field. I don’t know how deep footings on a structure of this type are, but I imagine them to be fairly deep. I really like your idea of geo-thermal heating Tod, makes good sense and with the way the oil and energy situation looks it would be a very good expenditure. It surely would pay for itself probably faster than one imagines. Also, one other plus for this location would be it’s partial protection from the North by the baseball field and buildings. That should help with N and NW winds in the winter and the heating. Please Board and Supt. consider it! I really am getting the feeling it will pass. It’s time to change, the other site isn’t apparently going to fly. I not only get the feeling it will pass, but be a good location and one that will concentrate the school and athletic facilities roughly into the same area. From what little I know, I’m guessing a two level nowadays will not be as tall as two stories of the old buildings. You won’t have the high ceilings even if you run the duct work in the first floor ceiling for the second floor. I’m only guessing this to be so. I’m excited about it and hope it can be worked out!
“I think it’s a bogus act of desperation on Stuart’s part,” said life-long Redfield resident Destiny Mains, 19. “They tore down the only remaining Dexfield school so that when they decide to build a new high school, we have to go along with it because there are no other options.”
Nice comment from a leader of the REAL LIFE CLUB. What a total waste of breath.
Tod, thanks for the post. It’s good as always. The beef I have with the board is they keep going back to the same site, they give no information, have those short meetings, and have treated people poorly. I’m hoping this time they will use the other site being talked about. I sure hope it is big enough and it will work out. I love that setting and location. I think it is about as natural of one as you can get with it’s location relative to the athletic fields and many other factors. I really like the two level idea as well the more I think about it. I’m no teacher, but I would think it would be a good thing to segregate different areas if you can. Just for educational purposes. I don’t mean segregate in a negative sense. I’m like some others, I really like it and think it will pass if it’s doable. We have to try to make it doable if at all possible, I think. The East site just isn’t going to pass. We have to come to that realization. There seems to be nothing but good comments, except for concern about the water, on this location if it is big enough. I just have a feeling it is and I believe,like already mentioned, if nothing else the area South of the soccer fields can surely be used for parking. If the soil survey was all about wetness and shrinking/swelling, then the work Stuart has done to get rid of the water should have really helped that area in that sense too. Come on Board, make me think you are listening and have an open mind. I want too. Let’s get a bond ready for this site and I think it will be an easy pass.
We’ve been hearing of ideas being presented here and have read with lots of interest those that have surfaced lately. We have both always voted YES in the past. We’ve been told it’s the only location, studies have been done and we have to pass a school bond for the good of the town. Well, it’s become clear they evidently haven’t studied ALL locations and now since the town of Stuart from the looks of things, has pretty much, if not fully, corrected the water problem, there IS a better site. We’ve become frustrated with people I won’t mention, but prominent one’s, let’s say, telling us we have to do it for the good of the TOWN, also. This is, after all, a DISTRICT, funded by everyone in it, not just for the betterment of Stuart. We understand these peoples’ reasoning, but have talked about how selfish they really are. Being lifelong area residents, we agree(d) and there seems to be no battle on putting a new High School in the town of Stuart. We have to say our support is past tense for the building of a new HS on the East site. We can’t in all good conscience vote YES again if that is what is proposed. We’re tired of being the subjects of pressure from these people. We have no idea if they have influence over the board and Supt., but would just guess that they certainly speak their mind and throw in reminders at every chance they get. Enough has been said. There’s a good idea that needs to studied and studied totally. If it isn’t and even if it is and we are told it won’t work, we aren’t buying it. They will have to tell us why it won’t work and in actuality work to make it work. We’re just two votes, but it will take 4 YES to counter the loss of our 2 YES and the gain of our 2 NO votes. It’s not a threat, we just want a school built and done right. This latest idea is a very, very good one from our viewpoint. Thank You to the person who came up with it. If it’s also said the board members and Supt. don’t read this blog, then we aren’t buying that any longer either. We have heard definitely, let’s say from a source who couldn’t be better. We have a chance to get something done finally, we truly feel as some others have said. Sure it’s going to be more work for the Supt. to get a new description, etc., etc., worked up and studies done. But after all, that’s what we are paying him for as part of his job. We have also talked about the ground South of the soccer fields. We agree if there is bad material buried there, that the DNR would have made the town or owner of the property clean it up by now. So we have to assume that land is useable as well. So many politics and wanting it one group’s way has delayed this to the detriment of everyone, money wise, teacher wise and most of all student wise. We hope a ground swell develops for this proposed site and two-level idea. We truly feel another attempt on the East site is a moot point and assured failure.
Todd Broman. You have brought up alot of good points and I agree with them. I am not overly fond of the East side of Stuart site either, but so far there has not been another site that would work as well.
2 story schools are a thing of the past and we might as well only look at 1 story buildings. We do need to look at the space involved for the things Todd brought up. so, until someone finds a better site, the East site makes the most sence now.
1:45, What do you expect from someone involved in the RLC? It’s nothing but a drug/alchohol/delinquent endorsing cult.
I agree you don’t see multi-story buildings anymore, but why is that? I would certainly go for a two level building and I’m sure it could have plenty of escapes to suit the fire marshall. Just because others don’t do it doesn’t mean it’s bad. Let be innovative. Some good reasons were given for a two level and it would take less space. I guess I’m not that willing to give up on the idea if there isn’t enough room for a one story building South of the athletic fields. I’m one that won’t vote for a building on the East site.
[...] Weekly Recap [...]
Nate, buddy, I can’t bring myself to read the school stuff –brings back horrible memories–can Stuart survive another bond issue issue?
And are the juvenile comments about Peg and her family, etc., really necessary? Not too classy…
How’s things goin’ at Ruby’s?
Well, the investigation continues, Annie. Will you support Peg as well as you did Carol? Oh, wait! Carol was canned and let’s see, she hasn’t got any money from the city, yet. But, let that lawsuit push on. A waste of energy and a black mark to the lawyer’s name who represents her. Go shlep some groceries.
I toured the new MS today and came away very impressed and very envious. That building will be a source of pride for the town of Redfield and the WCV district.
The quote (listed in an earlier blog) by one of my former students shows that there are those who will continue to fume about their building being torn down. The building is gone, so get over it. It’s not coming back regardless what you do.
To those bloggers who want the District to break up, that is probably the most selfish thing that can be done. Obviously, those in favor of dissolving the district are not taking the education of the kids into consideration.
If Redfield and Dexter broke away, their kids will suffer AND so will the kids who live in and around Stuart and Menlo. It doesn’t make a difference if any of the towns can go it alone. The curriculum will suffer and so will the kids.
Have you ever asked a teacher (other than myself) if they think the district should dissolve? Go ahead and ask my colleagues if they think that the students will get a better education if we separated.
Remember, we are talking about 2007 and not what it was like when we were in school.
More food for thought about the south site: I think that in order to have enough land for a building and parking, the road leading to the south diamond would have to be moved.
Now if there is a 2 story structure, there will have to be an elevator (or two)…I don’t know what the regulations state. Not everyone will be able to use the elevators, so the rest of the students and staff will have to use the stairs. There are those along with me whose knees are making it more difficult to go up and down the stairs. Even having your room on the ground floor doesn’t mean that you won’t be using the stairs.
Tod,
In some ways I think that with all of the fighting going around between the towns, all would be better if we split. Dexter and Redfield could go one way & Stuart and Menlo could go another way. However, you do bring up a good point: the kids would suffer. A lot of the fighting and bashing going around is not in the best interest of the kids. I know that when the towns first merged into one school district I wasn’t excited, but when I started going to school with those from the other towns, I made friends. These kids are already used to attending classes with those from other towns. If the district were to be split, I think that it would be more of a stand against the grown-ups than it would be a service to the students.
There is already a site owned by the school, yet so many people are against it,pobably because they feel that certain people are craving control, which is not true. So many people recently are saying that they will vote NO for the East site until they are given a reason to vote Yes, but they aren’t fooling anyone. They will never vote Yes because they want things their own way, regardless of how it will benefit their children, or the children of their community.
2:53- You mention that you aren’t willing to give up on an idea when it relates to building south of the Athletic fields. Yet you state that you won’t vote for a building on the East site. I’m curious as to how you would vote if the East site proposed a plan with a 2-story building that fit all of YOUR preferences. I’m guessing you would still vote no because you are too stubborn. Then again, maybe I am wrong. Is their something wrong with the East site that I don’t know about? Because I haven’t read anything at all that supported the athletic fields would be a better suited building site.
10:11 You are not fooling anyone, your part of the problem why this bond issue has failed six times! Stop telling us that we need to vote yes for the children when in reality it’s for the special interest group in Stuart. Stop wasting our tax payer’s money on these bond referendums to nowhere. After the next legislative session hopefully Iowans will not have to endure these elections every six months.
7:28- I like that you were a previous Yes voter, but now that you have merged to the other side, I have to ask: why do you feel more pressured by the Yes voters for the site to be east of town? I personally feel like ther are a minimal amount of people presssuring others to vote Yes on this site, yet there are a large number of people throwing out other ideas and sites that aren’t even suitable. Plus, whevever voting is drawing near, there are more flyers in the mail pointing out the No voters’ negative opinoins of the proposed site.
I think that if you realized the extent that these people will go to discourage anyone from voting for a school built east of town, you would realize that they will say anything to get you on their side. Those pushing the school to be built east of Stuart do not have their own agendas-they have their children’s and grandchildren’s agendas in mind. I know for a fact that they are not in this for themselves. They are fighting for the best site for the future of our communities. I hope that you reconsider, but it is probably too late as you seem to already be taking everything this new group is telling you to be true.
10:30- Exactly what special interest group are you talking about? Let me guess: you think that there are certain people trying to “control” and “coerce” everyone into thinking their way. Think again. I think that you are in the “group” that is trying to belittle others and make them believe that they are wasting their time, because everything should be done your way: right?
So what do you think that we need to have a new school for? I know that I think we do for the children and teens in the district, but it seems that you think differently. Do you think that we don’t need a new school? I’m wondering because you say that “people like me are wasting tax payer’s money”. Well I’ll tell you what: I have voted yes every time for the bond issue, and I will do so again and again. I haven’t tried to talk anyone into voting, nor have I been pressured into doing so. I feel that there needs to be a new school built and regardless of what the negative and bitchy “NO” bloggers say, it needs to happen soon. Each year that the new school is voted down, the price goes up. So do we keep feuding over this for another five years, and then finally realize that there is no other solution, yet it is millions of dollars more to build a new school by this point?
I think you need to get a clue: I am not the one trying to fool anyone- you are. What do you have to back up your claims? That’s what I thought-nothing!
And also- as for those who have to endure these bond issues, or elections as you say, every six months. If you’re that sick of it, don’t vote and leave the voting to those who care!
10:25, Location, location, location and getting a bond passed. Thoses are the selling points for the site South of the athletic fields, plus read the other weeks’ posts, they go into detail why it isn’t a good site. You can put their ideas as to why it isn’t a good site down, but they make sense if you keep an open mind. Plus I want a new school built and I don’t think a bond will pass with it located at the East site. Just read the posts on this blog I can relate to pressure from some people. tell some in conversation that the East site probably won’t work and see their reaction and how the conversation dries up immediately. Yes, these are business people, with THEIR own interests at heart, not the kids’. As to the poster who suggested to stop voting, that is exactly what you want people to do, so a few hundred can control the district. You just let your position out of the bag. Tod, I wouldn’t have a problem with closing that street, that shouldn’t be that hard to work around and actually I assumed a street maybe two would have to be dead ended at the new building on the South site. I feel for your knees, but in my profession I know that a certain amount of exercise actually helps, and one flight of stairs could actually be beneficial. Dissolving the district would be the worst thing that could happen in my mind. To tell you the truth I have heard from one person who fought tearing down the Redfield building in past yrs. They now realize it was the right thing to do and said it will look better. It’s hard to give up one’s heritage, but time marches on. 10:42 I’m not pretending to know 7:28’s position or circumstances, but as I mentioned there is pressure, not on the blog or in a public forum but on a one to one basis. I personally feel like I won’t get as good of a deal from these people now that they know my position. Maybe that’s just me being paranoid, but it’s in the back of my mind. I’m not trying to make anyone mad, I just want a bond at a location that will pass, plus I really like the location South of the athletic fields. I’ve heard rumors of a group of power people as we probably all have. I don’t know what to believe about that. But for some reason, it keeps coming back to the same site with basically the same plan. That’s like going to buy something and the salesman only offering you one thing to buy, take it or leave it, whether you like it or not. I don’t think any of us would like that, and that is exactly what’s happening here. I’m not a fighter, but am passionate this time around about getting a school built on the South site. It’s just my opinion, but I truly believe people will start to vote NO that have previously voted YES more and more. Look at the last votes results. Yes, the town of Stuart passed the bond, but there were more NO votes than the time before. If that trend continues, and I personally believe it will, then there is no chance of passing a bond similar to the last one. 7:28’s figures opened my eyes. Losing 2 YES votes and gaining 2 NO will take 4(four) YES votes to offset. Turning the numbers could happen quickly. And that is just to hold even.
tsk,tsk anonymous.
I believe one of the big assets of having a school built South of the athletic fields is having both in the same area. Plus this would take it off a highway that has plenty of traffic and sun in eyes at certain times of the year. Also, personal interest groups have done their best to sell the East site, with hopes of selling more land for future facilities at that location. But the biggest asset to me is having everything in the same area. I am like others, I will vote for a new building South of the athletic fields, just get a bond ready. I will not vote for a new building on the East site. Call me what you like, I’m not going to lie about anything. I’ve been snubbed by the banker so many times it is unbelievable, but he doesn’t turn down my deposits! So read into things what you wish. You can make up reasons why a housekeeper was fired from another vote, but I believe we all know why it happened. I could go on but enough said.
Previously I have voted Yes but with the defeat of 6 referendums I will not vote for the east site again. I would prefer to see land next to the present HS developed into the new site but I’m not against the site south of the athletic fields. I do know a special interest group has always been pushing for the east site because I myself have been on the perimeter of that group.
I must be blind. Where is there land (or room) next to the present high school?
I think 11:17 is referring to the parking lot/tennis courts across the street to the west and probably the house that sits on the SE corner of the block that the school sits on.
I ain’t selling!
I’ve heard of this plan earlier. It does take in the SE residential property, tennis courts, parking lot, and acquisition of 4 buildings on Fremont St. It would also include closing Main St. in front of the older addition to the school. I think it’s a plan that should be considered too.
And if the school was built in this area, where would the students park? I we were to include the parking lot and tennis courts as part of the expansion, where is the parking going to be? I know that the parking on the north side of the high school combined with south of the school isn’t enough to provide for all of the high schoolers of driving age. In fact, these areas of parking would barely even provide enough space for the faculty and visitors let alone students as well.
Actually with the acquisition of property there is more space on the school site then that south of the athletic fields.
Wow. Forcing a person (if not more) to move out of their home. I bet you’d just love to be told you need to move and give up your home. BAD IDEA!!!
They call it progress…get use to it.
10:10: I haven’t followed this idea of building on to the current high school site in Stuart. However, I must say that I agree with you: If we were to build on to the current site, then there would most likely be people asked to sell their homes and move out. There is no way that there is enough room around the high school for a new one to be built, in addition to parking!
10:11: Would you move out of your home if you was told that a new school was to be built and your home was in the way of it?
10:08- Do you care to expand on your comment? Where is this extra space compared to south of the athletic fields? Don’t get me wrong- I do not want the new school built there, but I also don’t understand how it would work on the property where it is currently located.
6:47 I would like to see your deed! 10:10 and 10:14 I believe you might be the same person. Two similar posts, 4 minutes apart? Maybe it’s time for Nate to put his identifiers on here again. I believe you all to be supporters of the East site and come He$$ or high water won’t consider changing. If I remember the idea of building by the old HS, it came after the vote and Nate has archives it looks like. So it’s very possible the post still exists. I believe the person talked about making where the bus parking is into parking and wrapping around to the West. Then parking the busses South of the tracks by the athletic fields. I’m not sure of all their ideas but it made sense to me when they put it all together. The big house on the corner sorry to say would only take an inspection and it would be condemned, I’m guessing. Plus I don’t know a lot about eminent domain, but it very well could be used here. So 6:47 maybe you should think about that if you truly are the owner which I highly, highly doubt. If eminent domain comes into play, if it’s anything like buying land for highways or roads, you won’t like the offer you get. I personally like the site South of the athletic fields. Let’s face it, I’ve voted Yes and will probably continue too, but the East site evidently isn’t going to pass. But as an alternative I believe these other two ideas should be studied fully. I really wish I could remember all the ideas of building on the tennis court and surrounding areas. Perhaps if it would work and the money, rather than being put in the old HS, plans for a new elem. could be for the old HS site and it torn down. That would free up room on the block that the HS now takes. If I remember right, it was talked about keeping the offices as they are. Let’s face it here too, the district isn’t going to get a good offer for that building, even though they should. I like either idea lots better than the East site to be honest. It always was apparent that a new building would only be the beginning out there. Soon it will be new athletic facilities there and many other things. One other factor that has been brought up is the fact the speed limit would be 25 during school hrs. and 35 the rest of the time. I really don’t like the sound of that. It’s time for discussions like these to take place, but an open mind has to be kept as well. If there’s room South of the athletic fields, I feel that’s where it should be, primarily because everything would be close together. No more kids crossing tracks to the fields, and the school close to it.
The rental apartments at the corner of 3rd and Fremont should have been condemned years ago. Mr. Broman: Just asking a question, being that you served on the Zoning Board has the board ever addressed how hazardous this building is for those living in it? Why hasn’t it been addressed? I don’t know the assessor’s value on the property but the residential properties are assessed below.
323 NE 2ND ST $32,854
211 N FREMONT ST $30,411
215 N FREMONT ST $35,796
219 N FREMONT ST $49,176
The P&Z might vote to condemn it, but I can almost guarantee the city council would reject the condemnation letter. Councilman Waddell lives tjere!
Good ideas and comments. I missed it when building near the present school was on the blog. It offers so new perspectives and ideas. Mr. Waddell is only one individual and should have to abstain from the vote if it affects him personally, anyway. Perhaps I’m wrong, but that’s the way I would think it should be. I hate to make a mean comment but the town would look better with the building gone. Sorry. Anyway, I really think the time is ripe to get a bond passed if the site is changed. Just from the comments being read here, I don’t think it’s not that people don’t want a new school. They see the future and what will happen out East and from all the talk, I have to believe their truly is a special interest group(s) involved. Why must we always head back out there? It seems other ideas and areas should be open to at least be studied and discussed at length. Something I just thought about. The office building is two stories isn’t it? That would probably give most a little idea of what a two story might be as far as height, etc., South of the fields. I hope something can get done this time. Perhaps the town wouldn’t be so growly then as well.
WHAR IF THE ADDITIONAL LAND THAT NEES TO BE PURCHASED BY THE FIELDS IS REFUSED TO BE SOLD BY THE OWNER?
Eminent domain? Are you serious? How can you consider contemplating making a person give up their home and move? You are being selfish and obviously do not care about others. Would you like to have someone come and tell you to leave the home you’ve had for 20+ years because they feel a new road is necessary? (I know it’s not about a road but the same principle applies.) Would you like being told that even though there are several places in the town that would be better choices because there are no buildings to demolish and there’s enough room for expansion in the future, the person chose to put it over YOUR house and will just bulldoze instead? It’s wrong and a plan for that will NEVER pass. Plus, it’s a fight the school doesn’t want.
I believe the individual was speaking of the rental property on the corner. If you would really like to get into a pis&&ng match, perhaps the state fire marshall and public health should come inspect the property. Especially since the city doesn’t seem to be interested in doing anything. I highly doubt if it would go to the state, the county level would probably be plenty. Being a rental property they have to have licenses, I assume. Everywhere else does, and have or are suppose to meet minimum standards. So go ahead and spout off without thinking things thru first. It just might bring on a fight YOU don’t want. I take it that you want the East site or nothing or else are a tenant or owner of one of the other properties. Maybe two out of the three? Challenging people can get you into a situation you really might not want to be in. Have a nice day.
What about the 2-3 other houses on that block?
Here’s some food for thought 12:31. This isn’t a case of eminent domain but it shows you how things are done in Stuart.
The Iowa Corporation SCIO TOO, L.L.C. owned by Eric Tiernan and Byran Belden with help of the Stuart Planning & Zoning Board issued a non compliance order against the owner of the MapleCrest rentals. He had wanted to make some improvements to the buildings. Belden & Tiernan purchased the property and issued eviction notices to the tenants. They have now demolished the buildings and plan to construct a spec home on the site. See how it works?
MapleCrest wanted to make improvements? ya right. Those appartments needed torn down and congrats to Belden and Tiernan for getting the job done.
This latest development by one of our elected officials is an eye opener.
Is it legal for the P&Z to issue an order against a property owner which would result in the financial betterment of a Stuart Councilman?
3:13–care to enlighten me about the non-compliance order issued by the P&Z? Being a member of that group, this is news to me.
The P&Z has no power other than to make recommendations to the City Council.
Tod, perhaps you can tell us a little more about this situation being you’re a member of the board. Do you have any recollection of this property being discussed at any meetings? Is there another zoning board in town that would issue an order like that?
Of all of the meetings that I attended, we have never talked about that property. If there was ever a discussion, it would have been during a meeting that I missed, but I highly doubt it.
No, the only other group is the Variance group and they only allow specific modifications to the code.
The chain of command is that people are to approach the P&Z first and then go to the Variance group.
My gut feeling is that the statement about the P&Z being involved is a fabrication or that someone heard the story wrong.
Thanks for clarifying Tod. I think 3:13 might have heard a rumor, go figure.
7:19- I am the one who posted the comment at 10:14, but not at 10:10. The person who posted at 10:10 simply brought up a good point that I felt like responding to.
Tod, from an earlier post you were asked this question about the rental building at the corner of Fremont & 4th. “Mr. Broman: Just asking a question, being that you served on the Zoning Board has the board ever addressed how hazardous this building is for those living in it? Why hasn’t it been addressed”?
Broman out of all the people in Stuart is the least likely do a favor for anyone for financial gain. Get real, people!
Hi i’ve been on a long vacation. 8-15 11:33, who is Mr Taylor or daughters? Anyway, I have a suggestion. Go to City Hall, get a copy of Official City Zoning Map for the City of Stuart. If the steps are too much call them and they will e-mail a copy. It appears the sports complex included, from Front street down to S.E. 6th street, excluding residential area, is all zoned light industrial. Does this sound like you can’t build there? I think it would be a great area for a high school. I believe the Sloss’ own most of it, and am sure they would be willing to see a new school built. There is plenty of room for parking on the two half blocks on west side of fremont, removing old barn which I’m sure the lady would sell. And they money derived from east property would cover purchasing south property. If you would investigate the options instead of gossiping and listening to hearsay, you might see the benefits. Kids do go uptown at lunch. Going from east sight is a long distance and they can’t drive. The south side provides a closer access to K & G, plus the Cyclone. Besides being right near the sports complex. My first thought out on the highway is that safety concern, plus the possiblitiy of tornados and where is the plan for refuge in that case? I really think the idea of a new school is far outweighing the academic concerns, and new school or not, these concerns are the most important.
Tornados? Seriously? You think a tornado will hit the east side in a different way than the south/north/west/central part of town? You think because a school would be built on the east site there would be no tornado shelters allowed on the property? WTF? That is the dumbest thing. LAME REASON.
Oh, and people don’t necessarily want to sell their property because you think they should. Property can hold as much sentimental value as a house can not to mention if it’s been in the family for a long time. People may not want to break it up and instead, pass it to their decendents.
I’m so tired of hearing “let’s buy this - I’m sure they’d sell” as if the owners had no use or reason or entitlement to even have it. It’s such a hassle to buy more land and plus, it’d be a way to LOSE money. Land in that high of demand can have an inflated cost and who knows how much time accuiring the land would take. It could drag on for weeks, months, or even years and then what would happen if after all that time, the deal would fall through? We’d be back at step one.
We HAVE land. Quite a bit of it. Why can’t we compromise? Use the land and build to suit it instead of making the land suit the building. It’s possible it wouldn’t take that much dirt work. People build houses according to the land they sit on so why can’t a school be the same way? I like the 2 story idea. Maybe we could have the first story be on the flat land and then have a walkout area on the bottom level which could hold the green house and the other tech classrooms. It’s an idea.
Come on people. Why waste even more time looking for land to buy (especially when there’s a high chance of it being unattainable) when we have some? Do you really not want a new school? Is that what it comes down to? Because that’s the only reason I can think of that’s causing all this delay. If you REALLY wanted it, you’d be willing to work with what we have.
1:48 / Compromise? I don’t believe after 6 bond defeats that any one will compromise and build on the east site. You’re the one that needs to change your position on this issue. You and your gang have lost! Move on with your life. I like the idea of building on the south site. There is even more land available to the east if it is needed. Yes, I think folks want a new school but when are you going to realize that it’s not going to be built on the east site.
1:48 I fully agree with 2:07 and taylormaid has very good thoughts. You picked out 1(one) and went berserk over it. That’s a big reason people don’t want to come forward or to say anything. I would guess some of the people, anyway, would love to sell their property, especially some that would know it was going to a school. No, 1:48 a school is wanted and will pass, but not on the East site. Your desperation is deafening in your post. 6 defeats should be very apparent that it will not pass on the East site. People are thinking of ways to pass this, you and your crowd are the hold-up. Also, I believe it was mentioned once before, but at the East site you are out in the open and going to catch that North and NW and NE wind with no protection. What’s that going to do to the heating bill? The other site(s) have protection and you know as well as everyone that helps a lot.
The more I hear about the prospect of building the HS south of the sports complex the more optimistic I am of the district actually passing a bond referendum. What it will take is for the school board to listen to the district and not a special interest group who have been pushing for the east site for the past six bond defeats. It will also be essential on their part with the help of citizens of this district to formulate a sensible plan for construction.
Are you kidding me.??
Once again folks, here are the facts…
The area south of the athletic fields is not going to work for a school building site.
Why..??
It was the dumping site of the railroad.!!
Not just for coal, but when the railroad roundhouse was demolished, it was buried in the very site that so many of you are spouting off as the perfect site for the high school.
This site, south of the athletic fields is a former swamp area. Hello!!! No one intelligent builds on a swamp.
Uninformed is an easy excuse, blind stupidity is no excuse.
11:14—no, the P&Z has not talked about that particular piece of rental property. No one has brought it up for discussion. Now, I am just asking…what do you base your claims of it being hazardous on? Has it been inspected? Have the renters filed a complaint?
I know that it doesn’t look good on the outside, but what evidence do you have?
Now, if it is really hazardous, then you must contact City Hall.
Taylormaid—if a new HS is built, regardless of the site, there won’t be any more open lunch. The lunchroom will be large enough to serve all of the students without any overcrowding. Of course, the kids will howl about losing the ability to go uptown, but it will be easier for us to keep track of them.
8:29 In case your unaware there were three homes on that site which were there at the time of the railroad. A good part of that area and that to the east were homes of people who worked for the Rock Island. So don’t give us that crap unless you can back up the facts!
Were Homes….why Were Homes…are because the land is unsuitable for building…
For those who won’t consider another site other then the one that has been defeated 6 times…YOU have no more options, it’s either explore the possibility of other sites or suffer defeat in another bond referendum. In the past I have voted yes but I won’t again on the east site.
9:21, There “were homes” all over town that are not there today. What a stupid remark.
8:29- I agree that building south of the athletic fields is not the best choice. What are you thoughts on building on the east site?
I can’t help but wonder if so many people are against building on the east site due to concerns aside from their own desires. Considering that so many people are jumping for wanting the school built south of the athletic fields, I wonder if those who wish this just want it built anywhere other than the east site in spite of those who have been pushing for it for so long? In my own opinion, I feel that there have been many wanting it built east of Stuart, who have spent many years trying to get it passed. There seems to be some light because many people are finally getting over the issue of what town it is built in. But are we fighting over the site because of environmental concerns? Or are many just too stubborn to admit that the East site seems to be the best choice? Just wondering.
8:29, Old timer told us, South of the soccer fields was the dumping site. I see no sinking or settling that would be typical of a dumping site with large items in it. Perhaps clinkers, etc., but they should not be a problem. Also, as far as the swamp part. The city spent money to fix the runoff and water problem it’s been said. I have to agree they did a great job, because there is now no evidence of a runoff problem. Perhaps it hasn’t been built on before because there WAS a water problem. The fact that there were homes there is a clue it is fit for building and was marginal to begin with. 11:51, why do people have to keep going over and over the reasons they won’t vote for the East site? It’s because you want to keep it as an active part of the conversation is my guess and are now panicking that it won’t be. 6 defeats tells anyone it isn’t the right choice. I won’t vote for a building there either. So as one poster put it go ahead and vote for it if it comes to that, but my no vote will offset your positive one. The groundswell support is for the South site. Now you know how the majority has felt for all these attempts at getting the East site passed. It’s clear special interest groups have grand plans for the East site and the surrounding area. If YOU REALLY want a school built, then you should not be fighting the site that seems to have the support. One that will pass and put an end to this and get the kids and teachers a new facility, close to the athletic fields. It’s been mentioned about parking. There would be more parking there than there is now by a long shot. Plus, perhaps in their wisdom, the board might delay spending money on the old HS and after a new HS is built on the South site, a new elementary could be built West right across from the old HS. Then tear down the old HS and have plenty of parking and have all new buildings or at least modern(Dexter and Redfield) ones. It’s funny no one can give good reasons for the East site like it’s possible for the South site. Other than we already own it. And it’s what the special interest groups(aka power people) want.
I am totally in favor of east of Stuart about 5 miles.
This is never going to pass. I say dissolve/kick Stuart out/whatever. Acutally, please DO kick Stuart out. However, it’ll be the only surviving school. Did you know that the admin was practically begging parents of Menlo elementary kids to send their children to Dexter because the class sizes are SO small? Yeah, that sounds like Redfield/Dexter can really make a go of it without Stuart. If Menlo wants to go with those two towns fine. I’m sure their 35-45 kids will really help sustain a Redfield/Dexter/Menlo school district.
I am just so sick of all this stupid fighting. It’s so petty and it’s based on old rivalries and spite. The people against the east side are against it because it was purchased by the S-M school board. There are no great/overwhelming reasons why the building shouldn’t be there except for the fact the east side wasn’t a part of the decision making. GET OVER IT! The south site that is desired by some is obviously NOT SUITABLE as seen by the soil tests done on it, the fact that it is the town dump, and the memories of those that remember the past and history of that land.
Time’s running out and honestly, I’m getting sick of this school community. It’s becoming a true embarassment to admit that I am from one of these four towns (and NO it’s NOT STUART! God forbid an east sider actually be against the east side vocal/bond buster group, right?) It’s absolutely ridiculous and a huge joke. Look how many families we’ve lost because of this fighting! Look how many students are being open enrolled. It’s crazy. Even Warren Varley is moving out of the district and he’s the last person I thought would ever leave since he has such strong ties to the area.
I say this is the last vote. All or nothing. If it fails, the school district dissolves.
east of stuart on August 21, 2007 9:20 am - Maybe a Dexfield district could pass a Dexter school, but not a WCV one. Keep dreaming.
Arnold said the last vote was the last vote!
This thing will not fly on the east site. Anyone saying the land is not workable doesn’t know what their talking about.
So, south site land is workable but east site isn’t? Why not? just curious.
Tod, I think the fremont address mentioned is on ne 3rd. You know some people have sensitive eyes. Remember the old Stage Stop that was an eyesore? They got it torn down and now it is a beautiful site! 8:21 12:32 You know I’ve looked all through the soil surveys down and the last I can find was in the ’70’s. If you have a copy of any more recent could you post it? Also Just where was all this dumping supposed to have taken place? Could We see a copy of that information also? The sports complex pretty much sits right on top of where the old engine houses were and with residential homes being south of there it would be hard to dump on them. As far as the ditch that runs through, it has been dug out and cleaned up. I’m very confused on where you get your information.
Correct 1:33- The east site will not work, it has lost 6 bond referendums…Do you see a pattern here?
Mr. Broman? can you guarantee no open lunch? I would think if they don’t pay you can’t keep them there without a lunch. I have heard it isn’t the lack of space so much as they don’t like the meals. If they don’t bring a lunch with them it will be kind cruel to make them stay in the school.
Freedom of Speech
Congress shall make no law . . . abridging the freedom
of speech….
— First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution
If there is one right prized above all others in a democratic society, it is freedom of speech. The ability to speak one’s mind, to challenge the political orthodoxies of the times,
to criticize the policies of the government without fear of recrimination by the state is the essential distinction between life in a free country and in a dictatorship. In the pantheon of the rights of the people, Supreme Court Justice Benjamin Cardozo, who served from 1932 to 1938, wrote of free speech that it is “the matrix . . . the indispensable condition of nearly every other freedom.”
Taylormaid—that apartment building is where I lived (upstairs) during my first 7 months in Stuart! If a person was claustrophobic, then that wouldn’t be a good place to live!
Stuart resident—call Mrs. Wilson and ask her if she would prefer closed lunch as to open. While at it, ask her how often kids are tardy coming back from open lunch. Also, have there been any occurences of students not coming back at all?
If you build a new building, it would be foolish to skimp on the kitchen and lunchroom. Larger and more efficient facilities could possibly lead to offering a salad bar and/or a la carte menu.
Kids have complained about hot lunches ever since God created dirt. You would have to agree that it is cheaper to eat at school versus plunking down some bills for a pop and a slice of pizza, etc.
Can the school require students to stay? Yes they can! Kids won’t like it, but they’ll eventually get used to it. As I stated earlier, by keeping them in the building it would be easier to keep track of them.
If you are a parent, wouldn’t you feel more secure knowing that we can account for your child’s whereabouts?
IF (that’s a BIG “if”) a new building was built east of town, then there would definitely have to be a closed lunch because it would be too far for students to go AND the school prohibits students from getting into vehicles during the school day unless given permission.
***********
It appears that many bloggers are confusing the area south of the high school baseball field with the city “dump”.
The south site is east of S. Fremont and north of SE 5th. The dumping grounds are located further SE near the corner of S. Madison and SE 6th.
Today, I drove by the south site and I still am concerned that there wouldn’t be enough room (even with a 2 story structure). The building cannot be put up right next to the streets, so that setback will eliminate some ground. Also, the building will not be built near the drainage ditch just beyond the right field fence on the baseball field—that setback will eliminate more ground.
Now, remember that you will need a lot of ground for a large gym and a future auditorium. AND you will need plenty of off-street parking for staff, students and visitors.
SE 5th has curb and gutter, but not S. Fremont. That street is narrow and it would not support an increase flow of heavier vehicles, so the city will have to spend $$ to improve it.
Also, S. Main leading up to the south diamonds will be affected. You need to make the south diamonds accessible to vehicular traffic.
Finally, remember there are two different people who own that land. Can we be sure that BOTH of them would be willing to sell at a reasonable price?
Now, I was making an observation from my vehicle and I don’t have any construction background, so there is the chance that I could be wrong. Until then…..
12:32- I understand your frustration, because I also am sick of all of the fighting. I also really liked your post for a few reasons. For one, you bring up that enough is enough, and go ahead and let the district dissolve if we’re never going to quit fighting. While that wouldn’t be the best choice for many people to make, it seems the most logical in many ways. I also applaud you for not mentioning taking sides or anything, as a lot of people only get more fired up when they hear of side-taking. Instead, you point out the basic, to the point facts as to why a certain site won’t work. In addition, you are so right when you mention that many are against the east site because the S-M school board bought it. I’m sure that if the Redfield school board bought this same site, people in Redfield and probably in Dexter wouldn’t be carrying on like they have been for the past few years.
To Aug. 19 3:13 pm.
You had a the main idea but several things were stated wrong. Eminent domain had nothing to do with what happened. Stuart Planning and Zoning was not involved.
SCIO bought the property from Dan Wagner, who had no plans to make inprovements.
The property was bought with the plans to demolish it and to put in new housing.
The tenants were given 1 years notice before having to move.
Maple Crest rentals was not in the picture and probably has not been for years.
HAHA! WE DEMOLISHED YOUR REDFIELD MIDDLE SCHOOL!
12:17, Thanks for doing that. It needed to be done. You or your parents helped pay for it. The South side is workable by closing streets, I believe Mr. Broman. What that involves, I don’t know. It’s clear you are for the East site, which is your right. And I appreciate your not calling names or running people down. The talk of soil surveys now has me totally confused. I, like many would like to see them. If they go back to the 70’s, they carry very little weight or credibility. 3:09, just what are the students going to eat? As Mr. Broman stated and I believe the great majority of us know, the meals at school cost much less than as he said a can of pop and a slice of pizza. There are programs for free lunches, so there’s no excuse for a student not to eat at school. The excuse about the meals is, repeating Mr. Broman again, ageless. It’s been that way as long as I can remember and that’s a long time. It was that way when I went to college and the Army about the prepared meals. As far as dissolving, I wouldn’t be too fast in saying Stuart can make it on it’s own. Even if they could, it would be in the old HS, with few students, able to afford just the basics for curriculum and teachers, and I’m doubting if the state would let it happen. I would more likely be inclined to think the state would come in and split the entire WCV district and send it in all directions. Then everyone would get a chance to drive or ride the bus. The stubborn ones aren’t the ones proposing the different site. The truly stubborn ones are those who won’t consider anything but the East site. Do you really think after all the support shown for the South site or an alternative site, that the East site is closer to passing now? I would have to say it is even further from passing. So the delay falls on YOUR shoulders, those who support only the East site. 12:17 I hope you are a teenager, because you embarrass even elementary age children. Do you people really think in your frenzy seeing the amount of support away from YOUR PRISTINE EAST SITE, that calling names, insulting and making the same old statements are going to change things? People are pretty immune to that by now and can see right thru posts for what they truly are. It’s being pretty well proven that the South site has been misrepresented as far as soil surveys. I still personally believe with the closing of a few streets, that wouldn’t block anyone(they could go an alternate route), the South site is THE site to build on. Even the idea of the one near the school is much better than the East site. Trying to go it alone, as mentioned, would open the Stuart peoples’ eyes, I believe. Redfield and Dexter have modern buildings. I assume Earlham would love to have the buildings and tax base. Or Adel and Panorama as well. Remember, the old Dexfield district went as far North as the Gas plant. Lots of high dollar valuation. So go for the East site again and #7. I fully assume that’s what’s going to happen. Be prepared for another defeat. But then I don’t want to hear any bellyacheing about ignorant people, etc. Because you would be talking about yourselves. I truly believe another site will pass if the money figure is reasonable. Decide what you want. A new school or more delay. The lack of a new HS rests on your shoulders NOW as it is. It’s a poor analogy, but it’s like someone looking for a new home and being told you are going to build here whether you like it or not and you’re going to pay for it, whether you like it or not. I personally, don’t want to hear about the lack of a new HS and it having should have been built. It’s location, location, location. And it’s the group pushing the East site who bear the fault for a new school not being up and running. There’s 3 no votes in my household. One was a Yes, but has become sick of being pushed and now with an alternative or two has a change of heart. So there’s another vote changed that will take 2 Yes votes to