Board to Finalize Middle Schools Renovation Project

The Board is expected to vote at their next meeting Monday on how to pay for the $462,640 shortfall they've encountered during the middle schools renovation project.

"Had we not used $632,000 of bond proceeds to pay for interest, we wouldn't have this shortfall," said Frosina Cordisco, the district's business manager.

In August 2009, the board approved $60 million in bonds for construction.

Two and a half years later, the construction crews are putting together the final punch list to complete project details.

The athletic field will be operational by fall, according to John Bornyas, the retired director of operations, community relations and special projects who is now working under contract with the district.

Along with the Fort Couch field, the $60 million used went to renovate the two middle schools, build an a $1.3 million AstroTurf field and track at , the purchase of 14 school buses, getting the new Cecil Township bus garage to meet zoning requirements and improvements to the pool, track and wireless internet.

Unforeseen expenses during the project included and the need to add a crosswalk on Boyce Road.

However, Cordisco said it was the interest that caused the shortfall. She suggested using $350,000 from unexpected settlement the district just received from Wells Fargo Bank and taking the rest from the district's fund balance.

"All of your major facilities have been renovated and you won't be having to go through this for another 30 years," Bornyas said.