Building Blocks has stated that they wish to construct a new facility on outer Law Avenue in Potsdam, and they’re required to vacate the existing building they now occupy on district property by May 12, 2013. According to local media reports, construction is to begin this month.

Day-care officials have been successful in obtaining approval from the village Planning Board to construct such a facility. As to remaining in their present location due to unforeseen construction delays, the superintendent stated, “I’m not expecting to receive any requests to that issue.”

As taxpayers we attended the building and grounds meeting on May 29. Both Christopher Cowen and Patrick Brady reaffirmed the day-care building will remain in the upcoming capital project and renovated for district use.

However, we are somewhat perplexed that the architects were not provided with the previous report by Bernier & Carr that investigated use of the building for district offices. Taxpayers should not have to pay another $2,500 for the same work. It’s troubling that architects hired by this district are placed in a position they have to request information needed to move forward in any capital project.

The use of the facility for district offices was brought forth some time ago by the superintendent and Board of Education. To our knowledge this option has not been discarded, nor has other previously discussed uses. It was very clear at the May 29 buildings and grounds meeting that the reluctance of the district to put forth any relevant information pertaining to the use of the building left the architects not only frustrated but questioning if the renovation was to remain in the request for proposals, or RFP. Use of district facilities is solely the responsibility of the elected Board of Education, not the architects.

In conclusion, we respectfully request that the superintendent and BOE make every effort to ensure the transfer in ownership of the building from Building Blocks to the school district be done on time and the required “control” number from the state Education Department (SED) be obtained as soon as possible to protect taxpayer interests.

Richard and Jane Hollister

Potsdam

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