Firelands schools start renovation talks

SOUTH AMHERST About 70 residents attended a Firelands School District meeting Thursday to discuss the future of their high school, middle school and elementary school buildings.

The school board has considered the issue for nearly a decade, said Superintendent Robert Hill.

Bob Mcullough, a representative from Hammond Construction in Canton, presented results of assessments his company has completed on the three buildings.

Firelands High School needs major renovations, he said. Plumbing, roofing and the electrical system need replacing, he said, and exterior walls require only a few improvements. He also suggested upgrading the schools fire alarm system and handicap accessibility.

Mcullough said the middle school, built almost 50 years ago, should be replaced.

Its not a suitable building, he said.

Despite Mculloughs suggestions, Hill said Firelands residents will make the final decisions on building renovations or replacement.

The Board of Education is making every effort to be as transparent as possible, he said, adding that letting community members add their input was a clear decision by the board especially since reconstruction would require a bond vote. Its their district. Its their money.

Residents left the room Thursday with clear instructions: Talk with their fellow community members and gather ideas on how to press forward with the building reconstruction project.

They plan to meet againJan. 29 at the high school.

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Firelands schools start renovation talks