Freeland tribune. (Freeland, Pa.) 1888-1921, 1895-02-14
A SENSIBLE VIEW,

EDITOR TRIBUNE.-Th proposed build
ing OF new schoolhouse in this town
has created considerable discussion in
regard to the merit of the scheme, as is
eVlnced by the various communications
appearing in the town papers.
However, it is very difficult to get any
definite understanding about what the
school board actually proposes to do.
Correct information about what the
board actually proposes to do is impera-
lively necessary, so that the voters of
Freeland can intelligently Judge whether
the directors proposition is the best or
most advisable plan for them to pursue
at the present time.
If the school board had called a public
meeting some evening, and explained
their proposition to the people who have
to pay the bill, and exchange opinions,
both unpopularity and msunderstand-
ing could have been avoided. But it
appears once a petty officer is elected,
he is above such weakness; he always
imagines himself elected on account of
his superior intelligence.
There is, of course, no difference of
opinion about the necessity Of more and
better school facilities at the present
time. The only difference exists about
the ways and means to accomplish the
purpose. Nobody doubts the honesty
or good intentions OF the school board
They and their friendly defenders ought
to remember that there is fully as much
honesty, intelligence, foresight and pride
in the welfare of our town outside Of
the ''school-ring' as is likely to exist
inside its self-contained circle.
A few months ago the people were
rather unexpectedly surprised by apropo-
sition of the school board to erect an
elegant eightroom brick school building
containing all modern improvements, in
place OF the old one, and at an cstimat-
ed cost OF over S22, 900, for which they
had no means, except running in debt
and increase of taxation.
Shortly afterward they had their at
tontion called to certain wise provisions
in the law which put limit to the debt
running proclivities of town officials. A
modification of the original plan had
consequently to be made. Only $40, sgl
can be borrowed at present for school
purposes. What kind of u schoolhouSe
does the school board now intend to
erect? Is it Il brick or a frame building?
Nobody seems to know.
Originally it was an cight-room brick
building which would scarcely furnish
school accommodation for Immediate
pressing demands. If the school board
could not erect building large enough
for the probable demands four or five
years hence at $22, 900, how can it build
IA brick building large enough for pres
cnt need for less than half that sum?
If they are not to erect commodious
brick structure, but frame building
they might just as well enlarge and i'm
prove what they now have. If they do
that, they do not need the sanction of
the electors for an increase of debt, as
the per cent limit will furnish sufIi-
cient funds for that purpose.
The present time is a little noppor-
tune. The people of Freeland are Il lit
tie cautious just now. year ago we
voted for an increase of taxation for
street lighting purposes. In less than
years time the cost has reached the ex-
travavant figure of $225 per month"; or
S2,700 for the year for lighting our
streets alone. From present indications
we will be called upon for more taxes 10
erect palatial courthouse and Jail in
our ambitious and rapacious neighbor-
ing city of Hazleton, If the notorious
Quay county scheme succeeds.
Whether we turn to the right, or turn
to the left, the same omnious sound of
cormorant tax gatherer is heard
Throughout our land, throughout our
region nothing but despair, struggle and
starvation is heard. Misery and power
ty are facing our Industrious inhabitants
in the face, whichever way they may
turn, without being able to help them
selves. Is this proper time to increase
taxation and add to the burdens of our
frugal people?
In few years time it might be more
favorable, and if our present growth
continues we might be able to manage
palatial schoolhouse commensurate with
our needs and ambition. FREELAND.