Opposition speaks out against NEVC issue

Friday, April 2, 2010

By Steve Moyer - Nevada Daily Mail

With the April 6 election fast approaching, Rob Barrett, patron of the Northeast Vernon County district, feels both sides of the issue haven't been fully explored in the pages of the Daily Mail. Responding to a story published in yesterday's edition, Barrett said his opposition to the Northeast Vernon County R-1 district's proposed bond issue is, primarily, financial in nature.

He said opponents of the levy are not trying to close the district.

"It's not opposition's goal to close the school," Barrett said.

He said the district's ability to handle the debt service and the state's ability to continue to fully support the school are of concern.

"Our concern, primarily, is the state's decision because the state's ability to support every district in the state is a really big concern," Barrett said. "From a budget standpoint, without state support it's a real big concern."

Many districts in Missouri are facing mid-year funding cuts this year, according to recent reports by the Associated Press.

Barrett said he has concerns about the levy's being too high and suppressing growth, which is needed in order for the district to meet its obligations under the proposed bonds.

"The levy is the highest in the area, Bronaugh is 3.65 and with the debt service it (the NEVC levy) would go to 5.65, literally $2 more than the Bronaugh district," Barrett said. "This is one of those details -- $2 higher than a comparable district will stifle development and growth in that district. If you're wanting to build a new home or add a structure you have to factor in that tax as a cost of that structure. This tax stifles growth."

The proposal's assumptions about growth bother Barrett as well, who said that while the overall property valuation in the district may have gone up it was as a result of events that are unusual and unlikely to be repeated.

"I know what they did is that they based part of their projections on the fact the dairy went into their school district and created an assessment growth," Barrett said. "But they are using that premise that they will be getting that growth over and over. That would be great, but probably not, in this economy. Plus, with the highest levy in the area it's going to be hard to compete."

The scope of the assumed growth also bothers Barrett who said he doesn't think it is realistic to imagine that the district would see $10 million of additional assessed valuation in the 20 years it would take to pay off the bonds.

"In their budget, to make the math work, they take their assessed valuation from $16 million to $26 million," Barrett said. "Maybe, based on history it has developed that much over the past 20 years, but going forward 20 years, if that does not happen the cash flow doesn't work -- their numbers won't work, just dollars-and-cents-wise."

Barrett said he doesn't doubt the integrity of NEVC Superintendent Charles Naas or the numbers he used, but he said in order to understand the proposal it is necessary to question the underlying assumptions.

"Mr. Naas is not distorting anything, you just need to turn to the next page, and the next page because it is quite complicated," Barrett said. "The cost of construction -- they've said they think they can do it for $100 a foot. We just don't see how, for a couple of reasons. By law it's required to pay prevailing wage. The second thing, now there is a lot of competition for work from contractors looking for work, that is a very valid point. What we did is we called Larry Goldberg, the architect for the Vernon County Jail. He said $200; but if you do it now, because of competition, it could maybe be done for $150 a foot."

Barrett said in looking over the budget he also did not see anything allocated for a septic system.

"Another concern we see with their budget, is that it does not include the septic or a lagoon and that DNR cost," Barrett said. "That would be substantial."

Another assumption Barrett disagreed with was that the district assumed the bonds would be paid off in twelve-and-a-half years, but the bonds would run the full 20 years.

"They think they can maybe pay it off in twelve-and-a-half years," Barrett said. "If you committed to pay me a rate for 20 years, I'm not going to let you prepay it. I think what they're doing, is looking at the weighted average maturity of 12.19 years and what that does is they take $2.45 million for one year, and the last balance of $250,000 for 20 years. If you take $250,000 for 20 years, and $500,000 for 19 years, and $750,000 for 18 years and so on and back it all the way up to $2.45 million for one year and do a weighted average of all those, that's where that 12-year figure comes from. These will be 20-year bonds, especially since their cash flow doesn't support it anyway."

Another concern Barrett raised was the level of teacher salaries. He believes the teachers in the NEVC district aren't paid adequately and that if the situation worsens, those teachers, and the students they teach, would suffer.

"No disrespect, but when the teachers are paid a third less than the average of the state, that almost implies that maybe the education is suffering a little bit because of the budget," Barrett said.

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The school board has spent considerable time and money to look at all the options and building a new school is the best option over adding on to existing buildings. Do not think that they don't have their ducks in a row in order to build the new school. Quoting a source stating that they can't build the school for 3.5 millions is crazy. Maybe the county overpaid for building the new jail, but no one questions that. Do you believe that the Opposition to the new School would care about the school's finances if a new tax levy wasn't on the ballot? Doubt it. If Mr. Barrett was so concerned about the school's finances, you would think he would call the Superintendent and offer his services or thoughts on the proposal, instead of tearing the proposal apart. Also, the new tax levy would be $5.16, not the $5.65, as quoted by Mr. Barrett. See, there are too many people going around spreading incorrect information. The thing about the Opposition to Proposition "S" that bothers me the most is that they are going against better education and publishing incorrect information, trying to scare people into voting No. I don't understand that. If they would just say that they don't want to pay higher taxes, I can live with that. But to attack a proposal that apparently they don't totally understand, because of some of the mis-information they have been advertising, is unethical.

-- Posted by Cowboy1 on Fri, Apr 2, 2010, at 9:35 AM
I forgot to add that the CTA fully supports Proposition S. The teachers aren't worried about the pay. They care about the kids and the environment that they teach in more. Wish I could say that about the opposition group. To them, it's all about the almighty dollar. And the education is not suffering because of the salary of the teachers. NEVC has some of the best teachers around, but the opposition wouldn't know that, because they either don't have kids in school, or choose to send them elsewhere.

-- Posted by Cowboy1 on Fri, Apr 2, 2010, at 9:41 AM
Two questions to ask yourself when you read this type of article. Number one. In this case, Mr. Barrett purports to be very supportive of the NEVC schools. Ever seen him at a school function? Ever see or read about him attending a school event to lend a hand? Ask him to name 10 of the current students at NEVC that he and others are so concerned with. Bet he can't.

-- Posted by Driveahawk on Fri, Apr 2, 2010, at 1:23 PM
No but I've seen he and his wife (who is a Walker HS alum) pay their taxes. I also know that several of the individuals that are opposing this are ex school board members. They worked trying to make it better for years and finally gave up realizing that throwing money at it won't fix it. Very few of us can name 10 members of the US Senate or House of Representatives but we sure hate watching them waste our money.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Fri, Apr 2, 2010, at 2:57 PM
Rep. Ike Skelton

Rep. JoAnn Emerson

Rep. Sam Graves

Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer

Rep. Roy Blunt

Rep. Todd Akin

Senator Blanche Lincoln

Senator Harry Reid

Rep.Lacy Clay

Rep. Russ Carnahan

Senator Kit Bond

Oops, Eleven. I'll stop

-- Posted by Driveahawk on Fri, Apr 2, 2010, at 3:32 PM
Gee you use the internet well driveahawk. Should have had you name 10 that deserve to keep their job.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Fri, Apr 2, 2010, at 3:44 PM
First off I'm voting yes to prop s. with that said I won't pretend that I have called this person and reserched all the money envolved. I'm not concerned about the money. I care about the kids and the building they are going to school in now. I want to post some comments that others have made elsewhere to give them a voice here. I did not write any of these so CTOP.

Ballards

current levy is $5.11 they don't like to mention other small schools do they?

They like to twist the facts in their favor. Amazing that the naysayers can

print lies like $5.65 IT IS $5.16! Kind of odd that a president of a local bank

would not know how to add

up the property tax. I assume he is bound by ethics as ...well. I would

like to refer the naysayers to the article in the Eldorado Paper where the

questions were addressed regarding the septic system, etc. They have been

certified by calling the state, water department, etc.

"No disrespect, but when the teachers are paid a third less than the average of the state, that almost implies that maybe the education is suffering a little bit because of the budget" statement by Rob Barrett in above article. I know of two children in the school district who have taken the Terra Nova test administered for K-2 at NEVC (Nationwide ... See moreAll 50 States not just small schools not just Missouri) and scored in the 99% that's right again 99% in the WHOLE NATION. The other child scored in the 86% not even from the same family. These are just two examples that I know of. Also have the print outs to prove it. Don't bash something you obviously know nothing about. These teachers work with nothing and are able to produce sensational results.

What the % means is that the children were 99% and 86% smarter than the other kids in the nation who took the test. 25%-75% is considered average. Look it up. It is a national test. Congratulations to the teachers in this district for those results.

I think something that is important to get out to the Seniors and disable folks is that they get a tax break and they ought to have their tax preparers explain this to them. This I believe would take alot of pressure of them in their decision making.

The following is an interview from the El Do Sun Credit to Kenny.

NEVC patrons are being asked to approve a $2.45 million bond issue for 20 years which will add a 94 cent levy to the existing $4.22 per $100 assessed valuation. The NEVC board has said it will use 49 cents of the existing levy to fund the remainder of the $3.5 million total cost of the new facility. The board has also said that if the voters approve the bond issue on April 6, the NEVC district will be eligible for stimulus money which may lower the levy up to 10 cents and shorten the payback on the bond issue five years or more. This is a one-time opportunity which will only be available now.

I went back to the office and wrote down the questions while they were fresh on my mind. Kimball and I discussed the situation and initially thought it was too late to do anything about the questions. I pondered about it most of Tuesday night while I was up anyway getting your newspaper printed. I finally decided that I would contact the NEVC administration and ask to see the documents which would answer the questions, Early Wednesday morning, I made the phone call. Since then, some other patrons have asked some questions. On Friday, NEVC Board Member Jeanne Hoagland and Superintendent Charles Naas came to the Sun office with a handful of documents and sat down for an interview.

* Is $3.5 million enough to finish the construction?

Westport Construction (which has provided a certified estimate and is currently doing the revitalization work in downtown El Dorado Springs), on its letterhead, provided an "Estimate for preK-12 & Vo-Ag building." The estimate includes 16 categories ranging from $192,000 for excavation and site work to $428,000 for electrical. The total figure from Westport Construction is $3,187,000. This figure does not include blueprints.

* Why is there no blueprint?

Board Member Hoagland said, "Blueprints are expensive. We will not spend taxpayer dollars on this item until voters approve the project. We do have an architectural color drawing which gives the public an accurate picture of the proposed project."

* Are bleachers for the new gym included in the current plans or only in plans for possible future expansion?

Bleachers are included in both plans. The bleachers in the current plan are in green on the south side of the gym and are not labeled with text. The possible confusion is that the bleachers on the future addition are on the opposite side of the gym and are labeled.

* The plans show a private bathroom for kitchen personnel. Is it legal to have a bathroom there?

Steve Durnell, EPHS IV, of the Vernon County Health Department, wrote, "In summary, my interpretation of the rule is as follows: The ideal placement of the restroom would be in the cafeteria region with limited use by persons other than the food service staff."

* Is there a viable plan for a sewage lagoon?

Supt. Naas said, "We plan to put the lagoon in the southeast corner of the property taking advantage of the natural slope of the property. I spoke with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources again today and it is a very valid option."

He said,"We will consider other options and, with the help of the DNR, will choose the right fit for our situation."

On Tuesday, Kevin Hess, water pollution section chief out of the Department of Natural Resources office in Springfield, told the

Sun that there are several factors which would have to be looked at by the school's engineer. Basically, he confirmed that a lagoon is in the realm of reason.

* Has the school district made any provisions to get a waterline to the new facility?

Supt. Naas: "I contacted the Vernon County Public Water Supply District and a line runs right by the property along Y Highway."

On Tuesday, Sherry Simmons, district clerk of Consolidated Public Water Supply District No. 1, confirmed that a 2 1/2 inch line runs on the south side of Hwy. Y at that location. She said that size line should be enough to supply the school's needs.

* Does the drawing of the new school show enough classrooms? For example, there is only one High School English room and English I, II and III are required.

Supt. Naas: We will use the same room (and teacher) for several classes during the school day just as we do in the present facility.

* Will the school have the number of students necessary to operate?

Supt. Naas: Our student enrollment has held steady in the 220-240 range for the past several years. There have been fluctuations depending on the size of the graduation class. This year, we have had an all time high of 140 students in

Elementary.

* Why not just fix the facilities we have?

Jeanne Hoagland said, "We want the taxpayers to know that we have considered all options. We had professionals (Tevis

Architect Firm) look at the buildings in Walker and Schell City and conduct a feasibility study to evaluate the condition of both buildings. They concluded that it would be more cost effective to construct a new facility than to renovate and repair the existing ones. Renovation would ultimately still leave us with eighty year old structures and inherent issues."

* Why not wait for better economic times?

Jeanne Hoagland said, "We see construction costs nearing an all-time low. The projected stimulus money is available for this April 6th election only. If we wait, construction costs are likely to climb."

* What will be done with the Walker and Schell City facilities?

Supt. Naas: We will let the communities make that decision. As taxpayers, they are the ultimate owners of the buildings and we owe it to them to weigh in on the decision for the buildings' future.

* Is there actually any stimulus money available to help pay back the bond issue?

Ms. Hoagland and Mr. Naas provided information that on March 18, 2010, President Obama signed the HIRE Act into law which provides $6.6 billion for a 65% subsidy for the QSCB (Qualified School Construction Bond) programs for all schools which participate in the 2010 allocation cycle. To participate, a school has to pass a bond issue by April 6th, 2010.

Missouri's share of that $6.6 billion is $146,348,000 up from the $141,441,000 which 33 Missouri schools shared in 2009. By the way, L. J. Hart, the NEVC bond advisor, was the underwriter on nine of those projects. Roger Adamson is the company's vice-president and is the primary representative working with the district (L. J. Hart & Company, 800.264.4477).

By way of comparison, Grandview R-II requested $2.5 million, about twice the amount NEVC would request if voters approve the bond issue. Grandview was approved for $1, 531,178. Roger Dorson (Coordinator of School Administrator Services for the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education) said, "the lower the project's request amount, the greater the chance of receiving the total amount." Superintendent Naas said their project's requested amount of $1,225,000 would certainly be among one of the lower amounts requested based on the 2009 allocation.

* How would the stimulus money be used to help bring down the amount of the tax levy increase and the length of the bonds?

L. J. Hart, the NEVC bond advisor, prepared a finance plan which projects that the stimulus money will permit an 84� levy to pay off the $2.45 million in bonds in 20 years or less.

On Tuesday, Roger Adamson confirmed that the stimulus money is available and that he conservatively estimates that NEVC can expect to get $1,225,000 under the plan. He confirmed his estimates on the finance plan he prepared.

* How can voters know for sure how much approval to the bond issue will affect their taxes?

Jeanne Hoagland said,

"I encourage everyone to call the Vernon County Assessor's office at 417/448-2530 to eliminate all doubt." Just to give you a ballpark figure, with a 94 cent levy (not counting the help from stimulus money), the increase on a residence with a market value of $50,000 would be $89.30 per year. The increased tax on a 2008 pickup valued at $25,500 would be about $79.82 per year. The increased tax on 100 acres of Category 5 farmland would be $21.96 per year. On 100 acres of Category 6 farmland, the increase would be $16.92. To give you a true picture, you should also ask the amount of increase for an 84-cent levy increase.

* What about patrons who say they cannot afford to pay more real estate taxes?

Charlene Winfiel, of H & R Block, told the Sun on Tuesday, "The State of Missouri will refund a portion of real estate taxes to people who are over 65 or are permanently and completely disabled. It's a calculation based on their income. The most they can get back is $750. It applies to people in those two categories who own property. We put in their total income and their total real estate taxes and it tells us how much they get back."

"It also applies to people who rent who are over 65 or are permanently and completely disabled if their landlord pays real estate taxes."

It is also retroactive, Ms. Winfiel said. "Right now, until April 15, we can go back to 2006. After April 15, we can only go back to 2007."

These are just some of the comments that people have made in support of prop s. Those apposed will tell you this and tell you that. Truth is they are not concerned about the kids one bit. They only care about their bank account. Don't let these non-caring people talk you out of supporting the kids. For once lets show the kids that despite our busy lives we actually do care about them and what they have to endure on a day to day basis. Jim

-- Posted by fromschell on Fri, Apr 2, 2010, at 3:55 PM
Oh Concerned Patron, I'd have expected better of you. By your comment, I assume you are both accusing me of looking those names up on the internet AND you seem to insinuate that ALL representatives in DC are wasting your money. I suspect you know better than that. Irrelevant to this discussion in any respect. I'd simply commented that SOME individuals that attempt to pretend they care about NEVC kids only care about their pocketbook. From your reference to "seeing them pay their taxes" in your first response to me, I take it you concur.

-- Posted by Driveahawk on Fri, Apr 2, 2010, at 9:29 PM
Driveahawk, you may believe what you want. Here's a fact, if it were not for a few land owners and business owners in the NEVC district like myself, you would have no school, no hope of having one and no way to pay for it. No matter how this turns out you and your group should always remember that. Call us what you want, demean us how you wish, but give us credit for what we do. We make up for a whole lot of people with kids that pay very little.

As for the lies told. Everyone seems to have their own view. You believe what you believe, we'll believe what we believe, but if this passes in the end it is us that will pay most of the bill. That you cannot deny.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Fri, Apr 2, 2010, at 11:21 PM
I am a land and a business owner and I will be voting yes. At some point we have to forget the now and think about the future. We should all feel ashamed if we put our bank account before the kids. We should remember that one day the kids will be taking care of us. I would hate for them to remember when we felt they weren't worth our pressious money. They may decide that we aren't worth their money. Remember, money it the root of all evil. Words to think about. Vote for the kids, vote yes. Jim

-- Posted by fromschell on Sat, Apr 3, 2010, at 1:19 AM
Yes fromschell I imagine you are a land owner and business owner. I read the three page spew above and tried to wallow my way through it. You have some good points, not all valid but some interesting ones.

I'm not sure where Ballard is but I know where Appleton City, Rich Hill, and Bronaugh are. They are actually in our area and they are cheaper.

There is no lie in Mr. Barrett's $5.65 figure. Trust me he adds quite well. It is 4.22 now (the highest in the area,) The bond is $.94 and by your own proposal, an added .49 to pay the lease that you can't legally bond. That equals $5.65. (one of the highest in the state and nation)That's the minimum amount it is going to cost to pay for this school, no matter how you disguise it or where it comes from. Your own agenda as outlined by the Hart company says the .49 cents will be paid by either using money from the chilrens trust fund, which is now used for operating and which by fact is shrinking, and by our point of view not a good idea to do, or it could be paid by a ".49 capital funds project levy" Go to the NEVC web sight and look it up, your people printed it. The way it reads out says we may do it with operating funds but when we realize we can't afford to do that (and I agree) we will do it with a "49 cent capital funds project levy". The scary part is, if they get the school half done, can't afford to take the 49 cents out of operating, and need the levy, we probably won't even get to vote on it if they can find the right judge.

I'm thrilled as everyone should be that you have a couple of kids that are doing well. No one should ever demean or degrade student success. Let's be realistic here, every school system that has been around very long has it's superstars and it's falling stars. Nevada, ElDorado, Rich Hill, Appleton City and yes even NEVC have had both. The bigger the school, the bigger the list,(both of them) so I am not even going to go there. By the way the 99th percentile means that the child did better than 99% of the other kids taking this test. Which is good but in no way should it lead one to believe that that child is smarter than 99% of the kids out there. Most of this type of intelligence can't be taught but only cultivated. It's one test on one day and intelligence is a relative thing. But good for them!!!

I've called the assessors office and asked. Early on no one there was bright enough to tell me. (they needed the above mentioned kid) The second time they answered and scared the hell out of me. It's good they have all our names though as I am sure our assessments will go up this time, just as they did after the last time this proposal ran.

The school population bothers me too. Mr. Naas says it's been holding at 220-240 for years. I can't find any evidence to support that. The Hart company said 170 something in its proposal, The state says (and I assume this to be more accurate) 175-194 depending on when you look. It just shouldn't be that hard to count to 200. The point is that it is decreasing. When the Walker Schell City merger took place it was over 300 (thats a year book count) It is down and will continue to go down and if you build it they won't come.

I have never heard of anyone paying off a bond issue early. Because bond holders don't want you to and it won't happen because their cash flow is predicated on a hefty increase in assessed valuation and the ability to repay is just not that strong.

I don't put my bank account before the kids. I've spent more than my fare share educating my own and others. But I sure won't put their names on the signature card either.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Sat, Apr 3, 2010, at 9:08 AM
I guess the one item that seems to me to be forgotten when one compares tax rates with other schools, (Bronaugh, Sheldon, Hume, others) is that while their rate may be lower at this time, at some point, they will also have to rebuild their schools and at that point, their rates will also raise. I do agree with your point that it is pointless to compare bright stars at one schools or another. Every school has stars and duds. Having went to a smaller school, I do think one has more of a sense of "family" and more one on one with teachers than one gets in a larger school. Advantages and disadvantages to both I suppose.

-- Posted by Driveahawk on Sat, Apr 3, 2010, at 9:31 AM
I agree completely driveahawk.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Sat, Apr 3, 2010, at 10:49 AM
Here is an interesting fact I just discovered that all of the NEVC patrons should know, whether you are for or against Prop. S. Westport Construction Co of Clinton Mo. (the ones that gave us all the "bullet proof" estimate) has had no less than 4 law suits filed against them in the last 5 years concerning construction jobs they did. One filed by the East Lynn #40 School District. May have given them a really cheap estimate too.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Sat, Apr 3, 2010, at 5:34 PM
The Westport Construction company is currently doing the downtown revitalization project and is currently replacing the sidewalks at the El Dorado School District. I say if the City of Eldorado trusts their abilities this is good enough for me. Ever done a search at missouricase.net for the company that worked on the vernon county jail? You will find some of the same information.

This is all about the taxes for the "few" that the opposition claims will pay all the taxes. I happen to be of the few. Verified it myself on the vernon county assessors website where you can look up everyone's share of personal property tax. As far as the real estate portion goes, I know how to read a plat book to count up how many acres someone has.

My view is a little different than some of the other "few". God has blessed our family to have a little more than others have. Does not make me any better than they are just more fortunate. I work 7 days a week at different jobs with no complaints. I feel that it is my duty to give back to my community and help the next generation so that maybe they can have the chance to be just as fortunate.

If the opposition truly stands by the remark made in a letter to me don't ask us for money ask us for what you need. What we need is to get these kids in a facility that is not crumbling around them. If you have a way to get that done please let me know. I would love to not have to pay more taxes. I just don't see how you can fix these buildings without the tax raise. Every school district at one time or another will need new facilities.

-- Posted by GO KNIGHTS! on Sun, Apr 4, 2010, at 8:32 AM
Go Knights, I guess I am the same boat as you. I too am one of those who may pay quite a bit more in taxes. And don't get me wrong, I don't rush to do so. But myself and my family choose to live here. We could live in Kansas City, Nevada, or where ever but we choose to live here. I have relatives in Kansas City and I know what they pay and believe me, my taxes are MUCH less. As I choose to live here, I also accept the responsibility to properly educate my children and provide them with a proper building in which to do so.

-- Posted by Driveahawk on Sun, Apr 4, 2010, at 8:58 AM
Just got word that several of the signs urging voters to support Proposition S have been vandalized around the county. Classy move....

-- Posted by Driveahawk on Sun, Apr 4, 2010, at 9:06 AM
I'm sorry that happened. You can rest assured that if I find out who did it, you will too. We certainly do not stand by the actions or the people who would do such a thing. We all certainly have the right to express our views. When we loose that, we have lost it all.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Sun, Apr 4, 2010, at 4:26 PM
Patron, I'm pleased to see you say that. I may not agree with what you say but I will fight to the death for your right to say it. I would be interested in knowing how many opposed to prop s supports the actions of the vandels last night. Doesn't take much to spray paint a sign.

-- Posted by fromschell on Sun, Apr 4, 2010, at 5:43 PM
First let me apologize for the signs. I can assure you that none of our committee had anything to do with this and we hope the people that did are caught and properly dealt with. No man should be denied his opinion nor his right to try to influence others.

Go Knights, if you trust the city of Eldorado to choose your contractor, why don't you trust them to educate some of your children?

I'm not concerned about the jail, it's done, I'm concerned about the issue at hand, even though I probably would not hire either of them to build your school

If you will read carefully, the comment was don't ask us for what you want, ask us for what you need.

By your own comment you say you need a building that's not crumbling around them and you said you weren't too thrilled about paying more taxes. You said what you want is a new building.

Eldorado has buildings that aren't crumbling, Nevada too, even though the high school is the same age as some of the buildings in Walker you plan to abandon or tear down, and two of the grade schools are older, but obviously all three were better maintained. And both of those districts have a levy that is at least 25% less than NEVC will be if this thing becomes law.

So here is how you get want you want and we all pay less. Close it down and send them elsewhere. If at some time either of those schools has to build a new building the cost will be spread out over a much larger tax base and we still pay less.

Or if you don't mind paying more, open your own private school, send your kids there and you won't have to put up with the government or us.

I'm glad God has blessed you as he certainly has blessed us all. I feel fortunate that we can have these types of discussions and differences without someone sending us all to jail. I feel very fortunate to be able to have these types of issues decided by a vote of the people and when the people have decided we should all walk away as the friends that we have always been and try to make it better, no matter what direction we decide to go. I too feel blessed to have what little I have, I just hope my blessings don't run out before I get my taxes paid.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Sun, Apr 4, 2010, at 6:07 PM
Concerned patron: If you would actually look at the information in full and not just look at one number and think that it is another tax increase. The $0.49 has already been implemented a few years ago. It is not some hidden additional tax. As for the ex-board member you are referring to he is one of the reasons the Walker School was shut down in the first place. Oh how fast we forget these pieces of info. When Walker and Shell City combined, Walker was running into trouble because the board did not take any actions on the previous recommendations from the state. People in Walker started electing "good ole boys" to the board that had no idea of how to run the school. I was a senior the year the schools combined and went to the meeting and have not forgotten this fact.

I don't see how you can say that you are for the small schools if your idea is to shut them down and sent the students to the larger surrounding schools. Many of the individuals I have noticed that are the land owners you are referring to that are against Prop. S are also ones that inherited all their land. I am in no way against families handing down land and property but it seems to me that many of the people in my neighborhood that are against Prop. S have never had to pay their own way and would prefer not to start now.

-- Posted by dlbruce on Mon, Apr 5, 2010, at 10:19 AM
You're going to be crucified here dlbruce for speaking what everyone knows but does not say.

-- Posted by Driveahawk on Mon, Apr 5, 2010, at 10:40 AM
Here is a letter from a student that should be heard.

I am currently a student of Northwest Missouri State University, through an early-entrance to college program known as the Missouri Academy of Science, Mathematics, and Computing. From the time I started school until I was a sophomore, I attend Northeast Vernon County Elementary and High School. I feel that I have been through it all with the elementary and most importantly with the High School.

The condition of the High School building has deteriorated largely over time. It comes to the point of desperation when rain can disrupt a class that is on the second floor of a three story building. I recall a time when we were state testing and the roof in the current High School math room literally was pouring water into the room. Trash cans were used to hold the extreme amounts of rain that was pouring into our classroom.

Another issue dealing with the condition of the High School is the gym. In the winter it is intolerably cold. I participated in basketball from fifth grade until my sophomore year. Many times it was unbearably cold, but yet we went ahead with practice any way. Also, when it rains it also leaks into the gym and onto the floor. This causes damage to the floor and a major liability. I know my freshman year, while running sprints for basketball practice, I slipped on a small, and nearly invisible puddle of water. Luckily I was not seriously injured, but it could have turned out much worse.

The temperature control is another story all in its own. With the winters becoming more and more bitter, especial this last one, students are forced to wear coats into the classroom. Not only is this uncomfortable, but have you ever sat stationary in a coat for a fifty minute period. I cannot speak for everyone, but I know that this used to make me very sleepy. And when a student is sleeping in class they are definitely not learning, and they are disrupting the flow of class when a teacher must stop teaching in order to wake the student.

The NEVC district has been my home for as long as I have been alive. My aunt and uncle, and my own father graduated from Walker High School. Both of my brothers graduated NEVC, my oldest brother being from one of the very first NEVC classes. Northeast Vernon County is a wonderful school and the students and teachers deserve better.

There has been some talk about the education standards at NEVC, but I can tell you, as a junior in high school in my first year of full time college, that NEVC has wonderful a education for those willing to take make an effort to learn. During my time at NEVC, I participated in Future Business Leaders of America, Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America, Academic Bowl, Student Council, and Basketball, just to name a few. Through these organizations I received many awards and recognitions on all levels. I know my friends and classmates have also achieved greatness through programs offered at NEVC. There is no way to deny that NEVC can compete with schools many times its size throughout the nation.

My sophomore year I was accepted into the Missouri Academy of Science, Mathematics, and Computing, which is an extremely competitive college program for high achieving juniors and seniors in High School. I current take classes on the campus of Northwest Missouri State University as a full time college freshman. Just this week I was selected as a leader amongst my peers as a Community Leader in the Academy. I credit my current educational success to the teachers and staff at Northeast Vernon County. I could never hope to thank them enough for all they have done for me, but I hope that by offering my account of success due to this small town school I can help to shed light on how necessary a new building is. I hope that you will vote yes on Proposition S, so that NEVC can be all that it can.

Most Respectfully Yours,

Caitlin Wallace

MASMC and NEVC Student

I will not add more to it.

-- Posted by fromschell on Mon, Apr 5, 2010, at 10:49 AM
Congrats. to Ms Wallace sounds like she has done well. One comment I noticed was that the education was there for those willing to learn, a true statement in any school system. Now that the testimonials are over, let's move on to the issue at hand.

One thing I feel obligated to mention. In an earlier writing someone suggested that Mr. Barrett try to do something positive for the school and the community. Did you all realize that he actually tried to give the district the old Walker bank building? No strings attached. They could use it for offices, storage or what ever they wanted or could sell it and keep the money. They passed.

Mr. dlbuce I have looked at the 49 cents. Yes the children's trust fund is already there, funded by income from gambling in MO. It is currently used to help operate the school, you know that trivial stuff like teachers salaries, utilities (which you will still have) running buses, paying drivers and administrators and such. The catch is that now you want to use it to pay for the building, and you can't use it for both. If that doesn't work out for them, they can keep it for operating and exercise a 49 cent special levy that is outlined in the Hart Co. proposal. That levy is not already included in the current tax structure. Hope that clears it up for you, but unfortunately I doubt it.

The ex board member that you refer to, voted against merging the two schools because he had the foresight to realize where we would be 15 years down the road, just like we are now and no better off. The student population has continued to shrink since that time and we still can't afford to build a new school. Appears to me that he was the only one on the board with any vision.

What about the other three members of our committee that were board members? Were they all good old boys that don't know how to run a business? The ones that I know are all honest, hardworking, successful business men. I would trust them to run my business. Most of the ones on the board now, I wouldn't loan my feed truck. Anything bad to say about those past board members, "good neighbor"?

If you are referring to me as one who inherited everything, I can assure you every parcel, every inch, of land that bears my name, I paid for,and am still paying for, at market price. As a matter of fact none of the land that I own was in a family members name before I owned it. With any luck, if I live long enough and the taxes don't eat it all up, I will get this paid for and may even inherit some. I hope we all do. The same stands for most of my neighbors that are in this district.

If you don't know what your talking about dl it's best to be quiet. "Better to be silent and thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt." I can assure you that I pay the taxes on my land and several other acres that my family owns in two school districts. I can also assure you which tax, and which district offers, the better value for my tax dollar. (Clue--It isn't the one we both live in)

As for paying my own way, I always have, always will, or will die trying. You up for that,dl?

Driveahawk, your right he was just crucified, but your wrong about what everyone knows, if you people knew half of what you think you know, you wouldn't need our help to build your school, you would all be rich and famous and could build it on your own.

Come on people,come up with something intelligent to say or say nothing.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Mon, Apr 5, 2010, at 5:18 PM
I'm sorry you feel that way fromschell. It is a shame that you let another persons opinion on a neutral subject embitter you so much. To be honest sir, if we own property here we all "support" the district and that includes Mr.Barrett.Unfortunately for him he doesn't live in the district so he can't even vote. Has he ever mentioned that? Seems to me he should be the one that is bitter, isn't that taxation without representation?

As for the people west of town, they pay taxes too and still see fit to have their own school. Do I agree with their theology? No, not completely, but I admire their resolve. I for one rue the day that the "feds come" for anyone.

I didn't realize I needed an invitation. I've had family own land in this district since before the turn of the century. That's 1900, not 2000. So ironically, my people have probably been here as long or longer than most of your people.

Yes, fromschell, my kids did go to public school at Nevada, because at that time we lived on land that we own in that district. They did fine, loved it, all went to college, all did fine and graduated and two are working on their Masters Degrees. So every district has its advantages and disadvantages, good students and poor ones. The advantage that the bigger school has is opportunity, curriculum, and cost. The small ones have a close knit family atmosphere, and good student to teacher ratios.

I cannot support this issue for many of the reasons that you have read over the past few days.

I am sorry that for that reason in your eyes I am no longer welcome here. That being your view, I am sorry to tell you that I don't have plans to go anywhere anytime soon.

Ezikial, I truley hope that you received your education somewhere else, as in far, far from here.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Mon, Apr 5, 2010, at 8:47 PM
I'm sorry you feel that way fromschell. It is a shame that you let another persons opinion on a neutral subject embitter you so much. To be honest sir, if we own property here we all "support" the district and that includes Mr.Barrett.Unfortunately for him he doesn't live in the district so he can't even vote. Has he ever mentioned that? Seems to me he should be the one that is bitter, isn't that taxation without representation?

As for the people west of town, they pay taxes too and still see fit to have their own school. Do I agree with their theology? No, not completely, but I admire their resolve. I for one rue the day that the "feds come" for anyone.

I didn't realize I needed an invitation. I've had family own land in this district since before the turn of the century. That's 1900, not 2000. So ironically, my people have probably been here as long or longer than most of your people.

Yes, fromschell, my kids did go to public school at Nevada, because at that time we lived on land that we own in that district. They did fine, loved it, all went to college, all did fine and graduated and two are working on their Masters Degrees. So every district has its advantages and disadvantages, good students and poor ones. The advantage that the bigger school has is opportunity, curriculum, and cost. The small ones have a close knit family atmosphere, and good student to teacher ratios but the cost is very high.

I cannot support this issue for many of the reasons that you have read over the past few days.

I am sorry that for that reason in your eyes I am no longer welcome here. That being your view, I am sorry to tell you that I don't have plans to go anywhere anytime soon.

Ezikial, I truley hope that you received your education somewhere else, as in far, far from here.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Mon, Apr 5, 2010, at 8:55 PM
Just curious. I've been told the management of Focal Dairies (owned by individuals from New Zealand and receiving HUGE tax breaks and incentives from our government) met privately with their local employees and warned them if Prop S passed, they might lose their jobs. If true, this would seem to be very close to voter intimidation to me and I believe that is a federal offense. I also am curious. I've been told that Heritage Bank is the main financial institution for Focal Dairies. Isn't that Rob Barrett's bank? Don't know, just asking. Can anyone confirm either one of those items?

-- Posted by Driveahawk on Mon, Apr 5, 2010, at 11:38 PM
I don't have a clue. I do know that they have to pay property taxes, but nothing else.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Mon, Apr 5, 2010, at 11:48 PM
This project will probably cost more than is estimated. But it will not cost as much as doing nothing.

We may not need a building, indoor plumbing or reliable heating for teachers to transmit ideas to healthy, comfortable students. We could do that in a tent or open field. But we do have some weather issues. When kids have to stay home because their 80 year old building is bested by the weather (like say, the furnace is broken AGAIN!) They are not learning. Parents have may have to leave local business understaffed, again. And this is the twenty-first century. Perhaps the expectation of an adequate facility is a reasonable one.

And yes, citizen, it is going to cost you money. The NEED for an adequate facility grows as time goes by. It was need last year and years before. Next year and the year after the need will only be more desperate. Do we want to wait until the old building is condemned? Several people have complained about the state of the economy. How can anyone not see that the depressed economy drives down cost. And that cost will be distributed into less lean times. Am I the only one that thinks the economy won't always be this bad? Right now the cost is as low as it is going to get (including over-runs).

It's gonna hurt in the wallet. Oh yes it is. If you own property and don't fall under exemptions you are gonna feel a serious pinch. Why would anyone want to pay for this? I doubt anybody WANTS to put in the work or pay the bill. But the benefit of an adequate facility (yes I'm avoiding writing "quality" as the point is comparison to the current facility) for public education somehow seems important to the future of our communities. So yea, it's gonna hurt but that's nothing compared to the shame of complacency. We might claim our kids deserve the best. Let's put your money where your mouth is and at least provide them with a DECENT edifice. And typically, such a building has a value for the community outside of school hours, though within school hours should be enough.

Of course there will be those to don't think our future citizens are worth putting a crowbar in their wallet. And there are those who have more land than civic devotion or pride. But we who say suffer the children to come unto me know that only through personal sacrifice can we hope to gain what is truly valuable. There is a price to be paid for doing the right thing. It may not be fair that those that have gained the most from our communities financially should have to pay a larger portion of the cost. Or maybe it is.

There are many details which will require more time thought and probably money. Does the opposition have a better plan? No. The opposition only offers concerns over cost. But no one is going to just hand us the community we want.

-- Posted by T. Ray on Tue, Apr 6, 2010, at 1:43 AM
There are several good points in there, T. Ray, as you meander from one generality to another. On occasion you almost drew a logical conclusion. But still you dug one obvious hole you can' climb out of.

You say the cost of the project will probably be more than estimated. The only forthright statement from a Prop S supporter in a long time has finally surfaced.

Then you wreck it by saying it won't cost as much as doing nothing. On that count Ray, you are incorrect. If we do nothing the school will eventually close. State law mandates that the children receive an education that meets certain standards. It doesn't have to play out that way but I'm sure your group will see fit to hang on until it follows that path. So then the kids will be sent to other schools, and that my friend will be cheaper.

So I guess you could say I do have a better plan. Send them to schools, already built, already equipped, already staffed, and already cheaper. You see T Ray it's not just about money, it's about value, it's about what you get for your money.

Those two facts alone make the rest of your meandering pointless.

You said "there is a price to be paid for doing the right thing." In this case there is a bigger price attached to doing the wrong thing.

Then Ray ends his ramblings with the one word that we have heard in nearly every Pro S stance. "Want"

-- Posted by concerned patron on Tue, Apr 6, 2010, at 4:47 AM
So there you have it folks. Concerned Patron and her cronies want to close down your school. They don't know who you are and don't much care. You're those "people" in Walker and Schell City. They may attempt to try to convince you that they want what's best for YOUR kids (not theirs, your little school wasn't NEARLY good enough for their kids you know) but in the end, they want what's best for their pocketbooks. Send em a message today at the polls. Go vote.

-- Posted by Driveahawk on Tue, Apr 6, 2010, at 6:23 AM
In the end, what we all want is what we believe is best for everyone. Driveahawk, fromschell, cowboy, I wish you an yours all the best, I have come to respect you and your views a bit. May the people's voice be heard.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Tue, Apr 6, 2010, at 7:12 AM
When I wrote, "But it will not cost as much as doing nothing," I should have been more clear that I was contrasting the financial cost of appropriate action (Yes on S) to the moral cost of inaction.

Rob Barrett, *patron* of the Northeast Vernon County district said, "It's not opposition's goal to close the school." [sic] I hope "concerned patron" is not Rob Barrett. I would hate to speculate, as I am not familiar enough with Barrett to know if he is capable of that level of hypocrisy.

How is the crowding at Nevada and ElDo schools? What will the fuel and fleet maintenance costs (here I'm speaking financially) be for forced busing to communities 20 miles away? Probably not in the millions. The moral cost? I suppose that's why we don't want a plutocracy.

How much will it cost to expand ElDo and/or Nevada schools to accommodate additional crowding? How should we vote on those bond measures? Or should we just have a swing shift for the kids?

Regarding "want," I actually started my previous meandering with the notion that a building is not a necessity for teaching. A comfortable environment is not necessary for learning. We don't even "need" education. So if anyone is convinced by the "only ask for what you need," rhetoric then I will concede all school funding.

We can show the kids how little we care. We can let the school close, ship the kids off to be someone else's problem. That would definitely maximize value, from a fiscal standpoint. We are under no obligation to act as responsibly as our citizens did 20, 40, 60 or 80 years ago. Maybe efficiency is more important than minimum standards. And maybe minimum standards are more important than genuine standards. But when the product comes out on the other end it won't be widgets. It will be the future custodians of what we hold dear.

I don't need them to have adequate learning facilities. I don't need them to have an education at all. But I want them to. And so does every principled person in town. We don't need to follow our ideals or the ideals of our predecessors. But I can find no merit in someone who doesn't want to.

-- Posted by T. Ray on Tue, Apr 6, 2010, at 8:15 AM
The vote today is very important. It could start a great new chapter in history for NEVC and the community. The opposition quotes as saying getting better value for your money and send the kids elsewhere. I would rather spend my money here and keep my kids close to home. If I wanted my kids to attend Nevada schools, I would move to Nevada. But, I don't. I value my kids more than my money, and would do whatever it takes to give them what they need. That being said, I would pay thousands of dollars more in taxes if I had to, rather than send them to Nevada schools. Nothing against Nevada schools, but I want my kids to go to NEVC. Everyone has their opinions and I'm sure everyone's mind is made up, but I know that supporting the building of a new school is the right and moral choice. Win or lose, I believe that we have become a closer community that is willing to stand up for what we think is right. I will have a clear conscience at the end of the day, knowing I made the right choice for my community, not my pocketbook. Please supporters, make sure to call all of your family, friends, & neighbors, to make sure they got out to vote today.

-- Posted by Cowboy1 on Tue, Apr 6, 2010, at 10:55 AM
T. Ray. it is hard to compare monetary and moral values, as I'm sure everone's exchange rate is different.

I know Mr Barrett pretty well, he is many things but not a hypocrit.

It will cost money to bus kids. It costs money to bus kids to Schell City and Walker. Some of the kids in the district being bused now are traveling nearly 20 miles. If you will look at a map of the district, you will see that part of the NEVC district is less than 3 miles from Nevada. It costs just as much and is just as "immoral" to bus them one way as it is the other.

Nevada and Eldorado wouldn't have to expand to handle the kids. They handle several from the district now and have indicated that it would not be a problem. If that should happen and they need a new facility, analyse that situation and vote your conscience, just as we all should in this scenario.

I can only assume you are being synical when you say we don't really need education as you seem to be fairly well educated yourself.

You are confusing following the ideals of our predecessors with doing it the same way we have always done it. There is a difference. We can maintain ideals and morality and still look at doing things a different way.

Maybe we don't need to send all the kids to other schools, maybe we need a K-6 in NEVC and send the high school kids to another larger and better equipped facility.

You are well spoken sir and your points are well taken. We all want them to have the best education we can afford to give them. They are indeed our future.

My ways and notions are not set in stone, but they have a strong footing in logic and progressive ideas.

I have a feeling, that should this issue not pass, you and I should explore the options further.

Make sure you all vote.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Tue, Apr 6, 2010, at 11:15 AM
Really, I guess by right outside of town, you meant the town of Harwood?

-- Posted by concerned patron on Tue, Apr 6, 2010, at 1:10 PM
So Concerned patron your group is out and out lying when you say the bond will go up by an additional $0.49. You just said it in your response to me earlier. If you knew it was already money that the school is getting why are you trying to tell people that the $0.49 is going to make their taxes go up more. It just confirms what most knew about the groups against the school. They do not care for the truth and do not care for the kids and education. They are worried they may have to pay for something.

As for the board members, I was not saying all the board members were poor. I know of several that were on the Walker board (prior to consolidation) that were good intelligent people that tried to help the school. But there were also a few that were recruited to be on the board for the reason for shutting down the school. They were the good ole boys that had no business running a school.

The facilities at NEVC are old but we have great students and wonderful teachers. Some like, concerned patron, would like you to believe that you need to go to a larger school to get a good education. I was in the last graduating class from Walker and going to a small school did not hold me back. I went on to college and graduate school without issue. I would argue that that small schools like NEVC give the student many opportunities that the larger schools do not.

-- Posted by dlbruce on Tue, Apr 6, 2010, at 2:26 PM
Obviously you didn't take many reading comprehension classes or accounting in your school years dl.

I'm telling you it could make your taxes go up more, because it can do just that. If they need the 49 cents for operating, they already have in place the option of a 49 cent levy increase to pay the lease. If this is not true dl perhaps you can tell me what a ".049 capital funds project levy" is. It's in the Hart Company paperwork that the district made public.

Obviously the board members that wanted the school shut down didn't get it done at least not completely. Possibly they didn't need to. Maybe it wasn't the time to do it. I can assure you the board you have now is no wiser and possibly not as wise as those people were.

Dl, I am sure you are an educated man. I can tell by your spelling and sentence structure. I will gladly compare my education and that of my children against your's or anyone else that you can find in your district, including your teachers and administrators. I am sure they are all noble and good people and good at their jobs. But don't degrade me, look down on my children or even dare to know how I feel about education or kids. You have no clue what you are talking about. I know you, and dozens of people like you. You are good honest folks that work hard and are entitled to everything you have earned, especially your opinions. But don't call me a liar if you can't back it up with something other than what you have.

Small schools may give some children opportunities that larger schools can't. If you have been following the conversations we have been having for the last several days, and read and comprehend what I have written, you would realize that. You also must agree that large schools can give kids some things that small schools can't.

The polls will close shortly and we will learn the outcome. I am willing to live with the decision that the voters make, yes or no. Somehow I get the feeling that most of you won't. And that is a shame.

-- Posted by concerned patron on Tue, Apr 6, 2010, at 4:34 PM
Once again the paper censors comments. Anyways, I just want to say that I have gained a lot of respect for concerned patron. You have taken a lot of flak from us and have stayed right there. I can not say the same for Barrett or Gray Clark. Both if them fired their shots but did not come around for the debate. I may not agree with what you say but I sure respect you for saying it. I look forward to seeing you again come august as it looks like that is when we will try again. Who knows maybe the fate will decide for us before then. Till then.

-- Posted by fromschell on Tue, Apr 6, 2010, at 10:01 PM
Good luck. Perhaps we could explore some common ground that we all can agree on. How much better would that be for the kids and the community?

-- Posted by concerned patron on Tue, Apr 6, 2010, at 10:08 PM
I do wonder how the decision was made to establish the district lines for the schools. My 6 year old spends two hours a day on the bus, which I absolutely HATE. We have a Nevada address yet he is in the NEVC school district. Nothing against NEVC, he is getting a good education there and we love his teacher, but I would prefer it if he didn't have to spend so much time on the bus. I also have a son who was born with a congenital heart defect and do not feel comfortable with him being so far from a hospital when he is old enough to attend school. I'm not sure that the answer is building a new school, but something definitely needs to change.

-- Posted by Shiloh on Wed, Apr 7, 2010, at 3:25 PM
I gather readers from across the county have enjoyed this discussion page. I hope that while it might have gotten testy at times, people realize you can have civil discussion with give and take by both sides. I still support building a school. I don't think Concerned Patron does and that's ok. We each have a right to our opinion. Please do yourself a favor and get involved. Go look at both schools INSIDE and OUT. I am sure administration will allow you to tour both buildings and see the conditions for yourself. Don't depend on what others tell you and think for yourself. Call the Assessor's office and find out what it REALLY will cost you if some sort of tax increase occurs and ultimately do what you THINK best for you and those kids.

-- Posted by Driveahawk on Thu, Apr 8, 2010, at 9:00 AM
In response to Shiloh's letter, the same argument can be made for every school district. There are many kids who have to ride a long time on the school bus and it still beats what the old timers say. They walked up hill both ways through the snow in the dark etc, etc. Realy though, the best way to insure short bus rides is to live next door to the school or take them there yourself. Someone has to be first and someone has to be last. Furthuremore, one should move to insure there own best interest if its a real problem. That's what bothers me about this whole issue with people being opposed to this school. If they don't like it they should do one of two things: move or get involved. We can either be a part of the solution or a part of the problem. Since a big portion of our taxes goes to the school, one should certainly live in the school district they believe in and support it whole heartedly. I'll stand firmly behind NEVC and support it and be involved to help make it better. What will you do? That's the real question for all of us in this district.

-- Posted by Rufus Dawes on Mon, Apr 12, 2010, at 10:27 PM

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