Why Not a New School Building?

If the school building is in such disrepair why isn't the school board promoting the building of a new school?

1.  The building while outdated and all the infrastructure (windows, doors, roofing, mechanical, electrical, etc.) completely worn out, is a structurally sound building.  The total square footage of the current building is roughly 47,500 sq. ft.  To replace that square footage at today's average construction cost would be in excess of an estimated $10,000,000.  This would not include demolition costs of the current structure.  The current structure would also have to have all asbestos abated and there would be little salvage value to existing systems.

2.  The current structure does not meet space needs for early and special needs learners.  It has been determined that an additional  5,500 sq. ft. to the existing facility will meet current educational needs and comply with more modern standards.  Any new structure would need to be built with that added square footage in mind.

3.  As you can see from above issues.  The total cost to build a new school in Minto would be significantly more than the renovation plan proposed.  Under current state statute, the school would not be able to borrow the funds needed to build new.  $5.8 million is the maximum amount of money that the school can levy.