What is the future of John Cline School?

The Decorah Community School Board has begun what will obviously be a long and complex discussion about the future of John Cline School. In their discussions Monday night the board discussed the "climate control" issues of the building, and noted that simply that issue could cost in excess of $500,000. But that kind of work could easily involve other related changes that would drive the cost up even further. The State Fire Marshal would likely insist on major modifications if a comprehensive air handling system were to be installed.

Superintendent Mike Haluska said if John Cline is to be considered in the long term plan for K-2 education in Decorah, then there would be need for additional classrooms, as well as art and music rooms, and renovated kitchen and cafeteria facilities. Questions were asked about the relative worth of investing possibly well over $2 million for renovations in contrast to building a new facility.  Superintendent Haluska said that there are too many questions out there at the moment, but that Struxture Architects will be visiting on September 12 to assess the John Cline facility. The board will revisit the topic in September.

Financing any project, either a low end air conditioning system, or more complicated renovations will be a major issue. Part of that financing ability will be determined by final figures when the high school renovation project has been finished (scheduled for completion next August).