LIVERMORE FALLS — The RSU 73 board is looking at a possible vote in December on whether to close either the Jay or Livermore Falls high school or keep both open, Superintendent Bob Wall said Thursday.

A building analysis and feasibility study has been conducted on both campuses of the Spruce Mountain High School in Jay and Livermore Falls.

The report is 85 percent done and should be available in two to three weeks. The board’s facilities committee will review it and make a recommendation to the school board.

Wall said he would like to conduct informational sessions in November on the question of continued operation of two high schools in Regional School Unit 73.

Whatever the decision, the cost will have to be factored into a proposed budget for the 2012-13 year, he said.

The study will include results from inspections of all building components, structure, mechanical and electrical systems. It will also include a code requirements analysis on each building. An energy efficiency analysis will also be part of the report.

Wall and other administrators are also looking at the education program and what the district wants to offer students and whether it should be offered at two sites or one.

Another aspect that will be reviewed is the gym space and athletic fields.

“I think our biggest challenge here is we’re going to be working with a limited budget,” Wall said.

In other business, directors voted unanimously to deny a grievance after an hour executive session with legal counsel and members of the RSU 73 Education Association. Chairwoman Denise Rodzen will issue a written statement within five days to the union and affected party.

In other action, directors voted 6-2-1 to extend the contract of Director of Transportation and Maintenance Ken Vining by two years and give him four weeks of vacation to be in line with bus drivers and custodians. He is currently in the midst of a one-year contract.

Chairwoman Denise Rodzen of Livermore Falls and Director Tammy Dwinal-Shufelt of Jay opposed the motion. Director Darcie Comstock of Jay abstained.

Prior to the vote, Rodzen said she had nothing against the individual in the position but she would be leery of extending the contract two years.

“I think what it allows is a little more security in the position,” Wall said. “This isn’t a position that is easy to fill. I think it gives us as much security as the person in the position. We’re not coming back and asking for an increase in pay.”

Director Dan DiPompo of Jay said it just gives the supervisor security and keeps everything running smooth.

“This is a tough job and very difficult to fill,” Wall reiterated.

dperry@sunjournal.com

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