The Monitor recently reported (“New budget, timeline set,” 4/25) that the Concord School Board would soon be receiving updated/revised schematic designs, including possible alternative designs, for the proposed new middle school along with the attendant updated building construction cost estimate and that the board would hold several public meetings to present these items. This is good news for all in Concord that are interested in this project from various different viewpoints. Maybe the board can also provide information on other project costs which are not normally included in building construction cost estimates.

Items such as site development costs including tree and stump clearing; utilities extensions/upgrades, parking and roads including improvements to current streets. Also such items as furnishings, fixtures and equipment: desks, chairs, bookcases, cafeteria supplies, etc. All the items necessary for operating the new school. Or are these going to be transferred from the existing building or a combination of the two? We can also hopefully look forward to hearing the reports or progress on items like environmental impact and traffic studies, soil and wetlands investigations and alteration of terrain permits. And what are the plans and costs for the current building and site? Reuse, demolition, sale? All the above and maybe more items and costs need to be disclosed and discussed before the board has the reported final vote in the fall next year as they all will affect the tax rate.

Jerry Tepe

Concord