What’s behind the deterioration of Cedar Rapids school buildings ... and why?

When canvassing support isn't working, try something else. Suddenly, CRCSD reveals Harding has structural issues too! What a convenient coincidence, if you’re a bond issue supporter. It seems the CRCSD has decided to apply a bit more pressure to taxpayers in the district to achieve a positive outcome to their proposed bond vote.

It’s apparent to me that the two dome schools were left to rot for awhile. Did they pass inspection after the derecho? Did the CRCSD comprise a plan after the storm? Leveling existing schools and replacing with new has been "the plan" for several years. If Taft and Harding were inspected after the great windstorm, as they should have, any issues at the two schools should have appeared then. I doubt they deteriorated to become “unsafe” in just the past three years. Did CRCSD roll the dice hoping they would stay together long enough? How long have the dome schools been unsafe?

What’s also apparent is that the CRCSD didn’t properly maintain their schools and properties. This has been an ever-common complaint with plenty of examples after so many school and area projects are in place. Don’t get me started on the rumble road between Kennedy and Xavier. Out-of-town visitors attending events at these schools and the many who enjoy playing Twin Pines Golf Course get a firsthand impression of Cedar Rapid’s “Paving for Progress.”

It's very important to keep governing councils, boards and commissions in check. Attend, listen, ask questions. Engage!

Charlie Visek

Hiawatha