'Secrecy' decried in middle school project (US)

'Secrecy' decried in middle school project

School officials say 'fair system' is being used to select architect with no hidden agenda.

By Adam Leech

aleech@seacoastonline.com

December 12, 2007 6:00 AM

PORTSMOUTH — City residents asked the School Board for more public participation in the decision on which architect will be chosen to design a new Portsmouth Middle School on Parrott Avenue.

The five architectural firms competing for the project are scheduled to be interviewed in private sessions by the selection committee on Dec. 18. Proposals and prices will be submitted after and the committee will recommend one firm to the board on Jan. 22.

Sarah Hamill, of Sagamore Avenue, said she is concerned the project is being "fast-tracked" and too much is being done behind closed doors.

"I am very concerned about the apparent secrecy of this important selection process," she said. "Furthermore, I am concerned about what is being asked of the architects."

Carol Chellman, of Richards Avenue, shared Hamill's concerns and also questioned whether the building that the architects are being asked to design is too big.

"My understanding is the administration is requesting a building almost double the size of the building we already have ... that's too big," she said. "You have a duty to the taxpayers to bring it down to a reasonable size."

After the meeting, both Superintendent Bob Lister and School Board Chairman Kent LaPage assured the selection process is being done fairly and following the city's typical procedures for large building projects.

"Nothing is being decided behind closed doors," said LaPage. "It is a very fair system for those participating in it because no information is exchanged."

 
 

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