mccarm@portlandschools.org
sibleh@portlandschools.org

I just checked the blog for the first time in weeks and saw this addition, but only because I poked around. Makes me think we might want to change the way this works so that the front page shows the latest stuff, like this new school entry, not the static opening page. What do you think?

The city will need to pay for things like relocation of the current population at Baxter, all additional bussing costs (every kid from the Clifford neighborhood will need to bussed to the new school — that is currently 280 kids. Half that population now walks to school). Other costs are air conditioning, and any other costs beyond a strict formula based on percentages for equipment. There are unknown costs that may not be covered by the contingencies, etc., needless to say the city does not know what those additional costs will be. In my opinion, the school department should not be marketing this project. It should be approved, or not, on its own strengths and merits. It is also inaccurate to say that the state money will be lost if this project is not approved. Clifford was the number 1 school in the ENTIRE STATE to receive construction funding, and it is highly likely that it will make the next round, if this project falls through. If not Clifford then look around our city — Reiche and Hall and Lyseth are in dire need of renovation or replacement. One of those buildings will be on the list, without a doubt.