Readers Write: Scrutinize Mineola schools before okaying renovation

The Island Now

A while back it was mentioned by the Mineola School superintendent that some “xyz” something in New Jersey said that doors and windows in four Mineola school buildings need replacing along with brick re-pointing. 

I carefully looked over the four buildings in question and I see nothing wrong with them. They all look very nice as they are.

When the Mineola school budget was voted on, there was nothing on the ballot about the above item and therefore it has not had voter approval. 

The Williston Times, Friday, June 25, 2013 has a front page article “Board praises, parents blast Hale at meet.” This long article continues on page 44 and way towards the end where it might go unnoticed is stated: “In other developments: The school board unanimously approved a transfer of funds not to exceed $4 million from the school district’s unassigned fund balance to its capital reserve fund for replacement of doors and windows and to do brick re-pointing at the four district elementary schools.”

“I would anticipate an October vote to spend the money,” Nagler said. 

Authorization to spend the money would require a referendum, Jack Waters said. These words might turn out to be cheap. Why would the money be moved before the work is approved? This process is seriously flawed as it always was during the reign of the previous superintendent.

Many questions arise: What is wrong with the windows and doors? The public should be told and be allowed to examine them for themselves. There is never mentioning of bidding for the work. The amount spent in the past is eight to 10 times the cost of windows. $4 million is a lot of money. 

The Willis Avenue School was included. That building is virtually brand new and the brick work is perfect. I saw so myself. The fact that this building was mentioned lends suspicion to the entire package.

Over the years, taking everything into account, much of what has been done has hit me as an inside money grab. Never does it appear that the publicly elected school board represents the people. I see no reason why any and all of the taxpayers should not have the right to examine these doors, windows and brickwork and have their voices heard and publicly acclaimed.

Charles Samek

Mineola

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