As residents of Biddeford, it is crucial for us to recognize the pressing need for improvements in our schools and school buildings. Among recent proposals, adding a new wing to Biddeford Primary School (BPS) stands out as the best opportunity to address this need and plan for the future.

 While the estimated project cost of $9.8 million may seem substantial, it is an investment that holds immense value for our students, staff, and the community as a whole. One of the key benefits of the proposed addition is the consolidation of school services by decommissioning the deteriorating John F. Kennedy School (JFK). With approximately $20 million required in upgrades to meet its current needs, JFK has become a financial burden, with the school department incurring additional maintenance costs in recent years.

 By relocating PreK and Kindergarten students to the new BPS extension, we not only enhance the physical structure but also alleviate one consistent strain on our school budget. Consolidating school services at a single location is anticipated to yield operational savings estimated at $450,000 annually. Additionally, the last bond payment for Biddeford Middle School (BMS) is next year, which will release $250,000 annually from our debt service obligations.

Concerning the annual debt service, the initial payment for the $7.1 million bond would be higher in the first year, amounting to $1.1 million. However, in the subsequent years, the annual debt service would range between $408,000 and $696,000, gradually decreasing over time.

In the coming years, the impact of school debt on the mil rate, which is currently at 0.22 or $62 for the average home, would decrease to around $0.08 or $22 per year for the average home over the next 20 years. This reduction takes into account the operational savings resulting from the closure of JFK.

While some may advocate for renovating JFK as an alternative option, it is vital to consider the cost implications. A comprehensive update to JFK to meet the needs of our Pre-K and Kindergarten students would require a significant investment of over $20 million, making it cost prohibitive and impractical, given our current financial resources. In contrast, investing in the BPS addition allows us to effectively address our immediate needs while also planning for future growth, ensuring our educational infrastructure's long-term adaptability and sustainability.

Furthermore, it is essential to acknowledge that if and when JFK is decommissioned, the property will revert from the Biddeford School Department to the City of Biddeford. At that point, the City Council and the public will have a say in determining the property's future use.

Options such as selling it, developing a new community center, or constructing affordable housing can be explored, ensuring that the decision-making process involves the wider community and aligns with our priorities and needs.

That said, school consolidations do come with potential downsides, so it is crucial to acknowledge and address them. One common concern is the potential disruption experienced by students and their families during the transition to a new consolidated school. This change may involve longer commuting distances and  theseparation of friends and familiar environments, which can be challenging for young children. However, in the case of this particular consolidation, these concerns are mitigated. Both schools are conveniently located within walking distance of each other on the same street, minimizing the commuting impact.

Additionally, it is worth noting that currently, most students only spend one year at JFK, potentially two if they are part of the pre-K program. This means the transition for JFK students to BPS would happen regardless of the consolidation.

Moreover, consolidating Pre-K to 2nd-grade students in one location where they will remain for four consecutive school years can actually minimize future disruptions and foster stronger relationships. By providing a consistent environment, students can build lasting connections with their peers, teachers, and school administrators. This continuity enhances the learning experience, promotes a sense of belonging, and facilitates stronger partnerships between teachers and families. Furthermore, it allows for a smoother transition from one grade to the next as students and teachers become more familiar with each other's needs and learning styles.

 While consolidation may initially raise concerns, the benefits of building stronger relationships and reducing disruptions for young students outweigh these potential downsides. It is important to note that the final decision on approving the proposed bond will lie in the hands of Biddeford voters this November. Before it reaches that stage, the project and bond must first gain approval from the City Council. This transparent and democratic process ensures that the community has a say in determining the future of our schools.

The first reading for the resolution authorizing a school referendum bond on the November 2023 State of Maine Referendum Election ballot will occur at the Tuesday, June 20 City Council meeting. Critics may rightfully question the financial implications of the proposed endeavor; however, we must weigh them against the long-term benefits and savings it will bring. Delaying necessary improvements in our schools and buildings only prolongs the challenges our students and staff face. Our responsibility as a Council and as a community is to provide a conducive learning environment that fosters growth and success.

Additionally, it is imperative that we recognize the need for a more responsible commitment to building maintenance moving forward in order to better preserve our current schools for current and future students, while also saving taxpayers money in the long run. By investing in proactive maintenance measures, we can prevent further deterioration and costly repairs.

Furthermore, it is essential to recognize that the cost of inaction far surpasses the investment needed for our schools. The deteriorating condition of JFK stands as evidence, with significant maintenance costs incurred over the years. By making this necessary investment now, we secure a brighter future for our students and ensure responsible use of taxpayer funds.

In conclusion, the addition to Biddeford Primary School represents a worthy endeavor that addresses our immediate and future school needs. Through consolidation, decommissioning JFK, and investing in a new wing, we can enhance our educational facilities while generating operational savings. While the initial $700,000 annual debt service may appear daunting, the net impact is significantly reduced by $450,000 to $250,000 when taking into account the operational savings resulting from the closure of JFK.

Consequently, over the course of the next 20 years, the mil rate will experience a modest impact of approximately $0.08 or $22 for the average home. As responsible citizens, let us embrace this cost-effective approach to improving our schools and securing a better future for Biddeford.

Liam LaFountain is a first-term City Councilor in Biddeford and a healthcare analyst at the non-profit Healthcare Purchaser Alliance. He welcomes questions, comments, and ideas and can be contacted directly at liam.lafountain@biddefordmaine.org.

The views and opinions herein are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints and opinions of Saco Bay News, its employees, publisher, or advertisers.