EAST LIVERPOOL - Discussion about the on-going Patterson Field improvement project dominated an uncharacteristically brief meeting Monday night of the city school board.
A meeting was held earlier in the day to further review a proposal to change plans for the foundation on one of the locker room buildings, and an estimate of $144,000 was apparently provided by contractor Mike Tice, but board members were uncomfortable with the iffy status of the quote.
"We were looking for more accurate numbers," Superintendent James Herring told the board, saying the estimate was "not to exceed" the $144,000 amount for pylons, fill, and foundation.
"Do we want an exact number?" Herring questioned the board.
"We've had too many surprises. I, for one, want more exact numbers," board member Larry Walton insisted.
Others agreed, with President Janice Martin saying a special board meeting can be called, if needed, to accept a solid figure.
Not agreeing was board member Richard Wolf, who suggested abandoning the current site of the locker room for a location in the southeast corner of the property.
He said an estimate that began at $255,000 is now at $1.5 million "and growing," and complained that a site analysis should have been conducted in the beginning and saying, "It's ridiculous to pour money into that hole."
Wolf also complained that decisions are being made by the administration, individual board members, committees or someone other than the entire board and said he will not support the current site.
Board Vice President Bob Estell argued the same problems could be encountered at the site Wolf was suggesting.
Board member Scott Dieringer said the public "already thinks we're crazy," and that abandoning the site to start over on another one will make the public "think we're more crazy."
Herring will ask Tice to provide firm figures on the projected foundation.
Wolf complained about eight police officers being assigned for security during the Potters vs. Beavers football game, saying they would not accept assignments but "they don't do anything but gather up at the gate," saying, "It's impossible to deal with them."
In financial matters, the board approved renewal of employee vision insurance through Medical Mutual through Sept. 30, 2013 at no increase, and Treasurer Todd Puster said renewal of health insurance will come up in January for a vote.
Puster said he has budgeted for the 7 to 10 percent increases being seen nationally, although "hopefully, it won't be that high."
Among personnel matters approved was the resignation of Sharon Whims as color guard/rifle director and several appointments, including Jennifer Davidson as North and LaCroft computer teacher.
The board convened in executive session to discuss personnel, specifically dismissal and compensation, with no action following.
