But, he believes the two organizations can find solutions. He worries, however, that the controversy will scare potential donors. Requiring performance bonds of small construction firms creates a barrier to their participation, Mr. Van Gelder suggested. The project started with the idea that the community could build the auditorium more efficiently than the school system could. The school board Monday asked its attorney, Amitri Beane-Williams, to draft documents that might answer concerns about performance bonds and other construction issues.
Fundamental issues remain, however.
But, I don't see us allowing someone to come in and build on school property. That's our responsibility. In an interview Wednesday, Mr. Van Gelder noted that private groups have erected stadium lights at both high schools with no problem. The potential north-south split plainly worries school board members. In a July letter to the editor, Mr. Ritchie promised organized opposition to those projects unless the school board funds Cedar Lee's auditorium.