Two weeks before Columbus voters go to the polls to determine the fate of a $36 million bond issue for repairs and improvements in the Columbus Municipal School District, citizens finally have the information they need to make an informed decision.
On Wednesday CMSD superintendent Stanley Ellis released a detailed account of how the funds would be used and also affirmed that part of the plans include the “repurposing” of two of the district’s five elementary schools, Franklin Academy and Fairview.
Until Wednesday, officials declined to say directly that closures were part of the district’s plan. The Dispatch had also pressed district officials for a more detailed account of how the bond money would be used.
An editorial published in Tuesday’s edition of The Dispatch called for the district to put its cards on the table by sharing its plans for closure/consolidation of its elementary schools and providing an itemized list of the work the bond money will fund ahead of the May 14 election.
Less than 24 hours later, Ellis delivered that information to The Dispatch.
We do not believe the timing was a coincidence. We believe pressure from citizens at public meetings and the newspaper played a significant role in ensuring this information was made available to voters. Certain voices within the district also promoted the release of this information.
Historically, holding public entities accountable and advocating on behalf of citizens is part and parcel of the role of newspapers. It is a responsibility we take seriously and pursue vigorously. When we succeed in that role, it is a victory, first and foremost, for the public. If we feel a sense of gratification, it comes from knowing that we have succeeded in our role.
Our criticism of CMSD in this situation was not motivated by opposition to the bond issue. In fact, we believe voters should support the bond issue now that the details of how those funds are to be spent have been made public.
Some believed the district’s refusal to clearly state the future of Franklin Academy and Fairview was an attempt to stay in the good graces of voters who might not like the idea. It’s possible that some voters may feel that way.
But we believe that being up front with those plans actually strengthens CMSD’s position. In fact, Ellis noted the effective closing of both schools would happen regardless of the outcome of the bond vote.
Franklin’s historic importance – it was the first public school in the state – is not being ignored by the district. While concrete plans for a new purpose for the building are still uncertain, Ellis assured Dispatch staff that a use would be found for the building. He noted in a previous meeting that Franklin is in need of extensive – and expensive – renovations.
That the district has taken steps to reduce costs by closing schools that are presently under-utilized is an act of good stewardship and is a signal the district intends to use these bond funds wisely.
We believe CMSD acted in its best interests, and in the best interests of the taxpayers, by providing the information released Wednesday.
The Dispatch is proud to have played some role in making that happen, something that would not be possible without the support of our subscribers and advertisers. We appreciate your participation in pushing for transparency in government.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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