D204's Daeschner fires back over 'misinformation'

Dr. Daeschner:

In that our District is engaged in litigation with its citizenry, it seems that for many of us, the only available means of communicating with our public servants is now via public exchange (in that direct communication by those who disagree with our elected and appointed District leaders is clearly not welcome).

Thus, I will use this as a forum to attempt to start an open line of communication (and perhaps start to draw out some of those facts that you have promised).

First, thank you for your note this afternoon. We appreciate you extending your thanks for our collective support of the District. As you may have learned in your first 10 months, the parents of 204 are passionate about their children and not only expect, but demand, to be involved in the education of their children. I would guess that the level of involvement in PTA and other parent activities in this community is beyond compare to your prior engagements.

Even those who disagree with the path taken by yourself and the Board have passionate support for the District and our children. I think we can all agree that the children of this district are extraordinary, as are its teachers. I hope that you do not construe those who have pursued litigation against the Administration and Board as not caring very deeply about their children and the District (which existed long before your arrival 10 months ago and will exist long after your departure).

I found the following comment from your communication of particular interest:

"I'd like to take this opportunity to re-focus on what the 2006 referendum was all about -- maintaining the high quality education that you have come to expect from District 204. Our third high school, Metea Valley, will provide students with the academic and extra-curricular opportunities they deserve."

Dr. Daeschner, it seems to me that you and the Board have had, and continue to have,complete control over the speed of which the third high school can be built. There is a perception shared by many (I believe ignorantly more than the 400 plus people who have financially supported the NSFOC legal action) that personal agendas, arrogance, power and even an ounce or two of desperation have permeated the decision making by the Board and District over the last 6 to 7 months.

However, it is apparent that the BB land is available, and based on the Board's thorough site evaluation that took place several years ago, it should be beyond debate that the Administration, Board and majority of the community agree that the BB site is the best locale (for safety, transportation and logical boundary reasons that did not include splitting schools) for the third school.

I recognize that you were not present in 2005 and 2006 when the referenda were presented to the residents of District 204, but I can assure you that the Board and Administration took great pains in communicating that the 2006 referendum was for the specific purpose to build the third high school on the BB school land. With the amount of due diligence and communication that took place between the two referenda, I do not know how this perception can be summarily discounted by the Administration. We can debate and litigate this issue for quite some time to come, but for the Administration to completely discount that this, at the very least, is a legitimate perception by many parts of the 204 community is mind boggling to many of us.

Quite frankly, but for your comment in regards to entitlement at the February 19th Board meeting, I am not sure whether the NSFOC group would have successfully formed, yet alone litigation would have been filed against the District. However, comments like "fence it in baby"..."nimkompoop"...."entitlement" and "I mean..good night" do not result in a spirit of inclusion, or inspire confidence in the leadership of our District.

I understand that there is a position that states the District can not afford the BB land. I also understand from recent reports that you do not in fact believe this to be true, but rather feel the EOLA land provides a "cheaper" alternative than BB. We can likewise debate and litigate whether BB in fact costs more than the EOLA site when you factor in the damage risks associated with abandonment as well as collateral costs such as extra transportation costs, remediation, wetlands, etc.

However, many believe that the conclusion advanced by the District that it can not afford the BB land is simply not correct. Likewise, the claim that the EOLA site will cost the District less than the BB site also seems to be inaccurate.

Quite frankly Dr. Daeschner, the damage that has been done to this community in regards to the hate that now exists between different subdivisions and communities already outweighs any financial savings that you claim you are fighting for. This divide did not exist before you arrived to our District but unfortunately, this may not be repaired prior to your departure.

In summary, we look forward to the facts that you are prepared to share in regards to this important issue (the community would like to see a detailed comparison upon which the District administration is basing its decisions). Hopefully, as you continue to share your thoughts, I hope that you will do so with a focus on all of the residents that you serve (and not just those who have demonstrated 100% support for your opinions).

Kind regards,

A concerned parent of 204

I can't believe this is the best Dr. D. could come up with. Are you kidding me? His email said absolutely nothing! I looked at it as damage control and a sign of defeat. Brach Brodie here we come!

It's about time they spoke up in response to the propaganda being produced by Collins and NSFOC crew.

Here's a summary of Dr. D's comment from my point of view,

NSFOC you are just a drop of oil in a bucket of water.

To MH:

Spoke up???? What did he say?? Nothing about the third school he references going on the EOLA site (pretty strange), no facts or contradiction to the three lawsuits or anything that has been published..

Dr. D Definately led with a shield rather than a sword (which we all know is not his style). My read on this is that something critical is coming down the tracks in the next few days(and probably not very good for the District) and Daeschner is being proactive to rally the support before it happens.

Hope BB is willing to negotiate after all the District bashing.

Looks like Dr. Daeschner and Mark Metzger's attempt to save face. Lously, attempt at best. They still didn't answer any questions regarding the 7 reports not released. Again, these are our kids we want them on a safe site.

D204 has been and still is a disfunctional group.

NSFOC please keep holding D204 accountable. We appreciate your efforts!

I am not a NSFOC member but I would rather support a cause that has tried to inform the public with truth. I find it laughable that it is your "small" group of HS wanabee's that told people there was 7 reports but only showed the one. Why would a dimweed do that other than to misinform if what you say is true. I have attended many meetings where you and the past board tried to incite negativity in the audience by inflamitory comments or just using dumb plays on words.

Let's try the play on words that your fellow dimweeds beleived that the property is "SAFE". Your Consultant told you in your last public meeting that "We found exactly what we expected to find". Then instead of clearifying the statement to the public that had not had a month to view the reports, they just continued on like everything was safe. NEWS FLASH: School Board accepts the overwhelming evidance that there is high levels of polution on land they have told the public was safe, but they would like to stick it to the public so they push ahead anyway.

I would say if there is enough polution to warrant remediation, I would not want my kids to go there. The simple fact that you just want to throw up a fense or pave it over when you have better property to choose from says that you are not capable of using wise judgement. How can you claim that you have anything to do with the grades in this district after only 10 months is beyond me. I think if you are the caliber of individual running things, our grades will most likely go down. You realy like to dumb things down here in town anyway. Why would you be any different in meetings with our teachers or heaven forbid, the students. You want to teach them how to incite negativity. Maybe you are attempting to demonstrate your keen sense of judgement. Maybe you are attempting to show students and parents that even dimweeds can get paid big bucks and still find a way to mess with the little guys. Great job with all your insight into how to build solid relationships.

I like the statement that you did not want to participate in public debate eventhough you are a public official. If that doesn't tell people how weak minded you are what does. Don't tell me your supporters would say you're taking the high road. Where I stand you're knee deep in dung and sinking fast. The best you can hope for is the rest of the heard will follow you in so you have someone else to stand on to keep from drowning in dung.

It is also funny that you think that by telling the paper and others that these reports are of no consequence and everyone should just blindly believe you. You have proven over and over again that you can not be trusted. If you move ahead with your building project on Metea before the IEPA is finished you are once again telling lies. I bet rather than swallow your pride and change paths for a better decision you will push forward just to stick it to the public so everyone can see how important you are. Keep pushing the I hate TG message. That will be fun.

Anyway, I think you're doing a great job. Keep up the good fight. Was that what you wanted to hear? I expect your support now that I am on your side.

Excellent, truly professional response.

I would like to add to it, and I have sent a similar response back to our SD, as quite frankly I find part of Dr. Daechsners' response insulting.
I have been an active parent in this district for 18 years, giving untold time and effort in ES, MS and HS, in various positions and functions. To be summarily dismissed as not being part of the parents that support the district because I disagree with the site selection for many reasons, from safety to poor location compared to population center of the district. I was one of many people who worked tirelessly for 2 -3 years, 20+ hours a week / weekends, knocking on doors, writing fliers/literature, attending more meeting than I care to remember, to ensure passage of a referendum for a 3rd high school @ Brach-Brodie. Yes, the effort started as get funds approved for a 3rd high school - but they evolved into let's put it at the best site available for our district, safest for our children. Let's not pretend that no due diligence was done as to the best site for our district, or that transportation analysis weren't done to prove boundary proposal 5A was not the most financially sound and safest, and moving the least amount of children - especially long distances.
So when I read this note that pretends that there are only 200-300 upset people in this area over the site selection I find it disingenuous. It also shows a lack of listening to the constituency. At the Watts PTA meeting this week a parent informed people they had joined NSFOC and why. There were no disapproving moans and groans, people listened intently, as the wedge being driven through our community is getting larger daily. All concerns from this area have been ignored, and do not think they don't exist here. However some are actually afraid to come forward because of all the labeling going on. There are significantly more people upset than 200-300, although all might not be at the point where they have formally joined the NSFOC. Comments like this will drive more people to do so, and if that's what is trying to be accomplished, to further segregate people and areas into 'camps', that is what will happen. I find it very distressing that it seems some of these efforts are driven by people making the decisions, directing e-mail correspondence from some areas ( sometimes led by PTA officials ) to rally 'against' others, driving even more wedges between areas. I still receive many of these e-mails as a lot of us who worked on 204tk, wind204 etc., still get copied.
So let's be honest here, blindly supporting this site selection should not be the only barometer as to whether a person 'supports their district' or not. There are plenty of people who support this site for all the wrong reasons ( school in my back yard) - when 18 months ago they didn't support a 3rd high school period. There are also some who do not support the site for the wrong reasons as well. To try and lump all people together and label them on one issue is short sighted at best. I believe I have very valid reasons for not supporting this site, and all I have gotten in response to issues is dismissal of my concerns.

I am not ready to write off my 18 years of service and dedication to 204 because someone tells me I either support what I feel is absolutely the wrong site for this high school, or I somehow am anti- 204. I was here long before many people, and will likely be here long after. I love IPSD 204, and am very proud of my one graduate of WVHS. I couldn't have more respect for Waubonsie Valley, yet my next child will not be able to attend there. The 'new' Waubonsie being crafted decided that although my driving commute would triple to the new site, and the new site would be the absolute furthest from my home, it was best for the district. Then I hear at orientation that the new boundaries will allow for the school to raise more money for it's booster club, and the re-engineering of boundaries becomes more obvious as to the reason. Then as an option we get to attend a school on a site I would NEVER build my home on, nor would I think any SB or SD member choose to do so, yet will send our children there.
It is with heavy heart that because of these decisions we will leave 204 for our educational needs. I look back fondly on my involvement with this district and am proud of it. I refuse to send my child to a site I myself would not attend, however I do not view that as anti kids, or anti district. I call it doing my job as a parent, and to be told any differerntly is insulting.

You are an insult to this district and you along with Mark Metzger should resign. It is clear that when you dont agree with the very citizens that sign your big fat paycheck that you just close your ears, mind and soul. How dare you write a letter that basically says nothing, insults the people that disagree with you and essentailly wipes whatever may be hiding on the Eola land under a nice thick layer of concrete.

Whether or not the 204 residents support, dont support (the whole new high school mess or location) or dare to ask a few questions you are a "public official", hired by the public and responsible for acting like a professional CEO. I cant imagine the CEO of any publically traded company acting like you and then not being run out of town by its board..hint, hint SB!

God help us all!

Daeschner should go back to Kentucky.

The district is being sued by someone different each day and the board is incompetent.

Enrollment has peaked and is declining and they are still trying to build this thing. The district should cut its loses and order a few portable classrooms and be done with it.

The 3rd high school will never be needed.

By Concerned 204 Parent on April 10, 2008 7:26 AM

Thank you very much for your post. It echoes many things I have said to the SB myself. Unfortunately of the emails I sent, I only received one response. The response did not contain any information, insights, reasons, or answers - only questions posed back to me. And, when I answered those questions, I received no further acknowledgement.

In one particular email I pleaded for someone from the SB to step up and acknowledge the growing divide in the community and, as a leader, ask for an end to be put to the name calling, neighborhood bashing, and outright lies. And, you see where we are today - deeper in disgrace than ever. Seems we are continuing on that same path, as the stage has now clearly been set by Dr. Daeschner to blame a small group of people for all of the problems that plague the district today, and whatever is coming next. This is very inaccurate, unfair, and disheartening - not a sign of the strong, positive leadership needed going forward.

I, too, appreciate Dr. Daeschner's acknowledgement that this is a great school district. However, based on the message he sent out today, there are apparently only enough "thank you's" to go around to those who have given their complete support to him and the school board which is, in his mind, synonymous with support for the district:
_______________
I would like to thank the many parents who over the past few weeks have expressed their strong support for the district. Your continued support is appreciated.

Stephen Daeschner
Superintendent
_______________
I'm sorry, Dr. Daeschner, but I do support the district - its teachers, students, support staff and the parents in every neighborhood that make success happen, in small ways, every day. Support for the district and support for its leadership unfortunately are not always one in the same, but it would be nice to get back to that place.

Please read this slow because some how it's still not registering in your minds!!!

The Eola site is safe.

- 71.5 of the acres are fine.
- 8 of the 15 acres of the former Peaker Plant are fine.
- Remediation of the 7 acres in the NE corner is minor.
- There was no migration of the diesel fuel or coolant.
- EMF levels are low
- Peaker Plant location where there are areas of concern is over 23 acres away from where the school will be.
- Power Lines aren't even on the property and over 300 yars away (3 football fields)
- Train Tracks are even farther away from the school.
- Pipeline is 300 feet away from the school and will be monitored every year by Kimber Morgan.

Look aroud people there are far greater risks in your own neighborhoods or at our other schools and (thank God) there have never been any disasters. All this doom and gloom is just propaganda to try and prevent a school from being built any where but on the BB property by some unhappy parents that didn't get their way. End of story.

To: Dr. D as in Diaster..."DDD" on April 10, 2008 9:19 AM

Sorry to burst your little bubble you live in but there are far more of us that support the SB and DR. D then those that are against them and throw insults at them every day.

Sorry but it people like yourself that are an insult to the IPSD.

To "concerned parent 4/10 7:26am and "By Doc 4/10 9:14am"

Both your posts were very moving. Quite frankly, they are two of the best posts I have seen in quite some time.

I am also frustrated beyond comprehension.

In regards to Steven's letter;
1. It said alot of nothing about any quantifiable facts regarding the situation (Eola site) the costs, the 3 lawsuits etc. Just alot of fluff and puffery in my opinion

2. Yes, he has greatly underestimated the level of dissenting views regarding the situation. I have a feeling that is why they (Admin/SB) are fearful of putting the site up for a confirmation vote which would settile things and defuse a some ofthe situation. If they did this (put it up for a vote), my respect for them would skyrocket and I would support the will of the majority (whichever way it fell). We would then truly know where the majority of the district stands on this incredibility devisive issue.

3. I am a supporter of D204; BUT NOT THE current actions of the administration and SB. I am also a supporter (both financially and spiritually) of the NSFOC. I do not feel these are mutally exclusive. Apparently Steven does based on my intrepertation of his letter. We can agree to disagree.

4. In the interim; the 3 lawsuits will play out, Then In April of 2009; we will all have a chance to once again see where the majority of the district stands on this issue. 4 of the 7 SB members terms come up for re-election.

GF

I can't believe the NSFOC supporters here still are looking for answers in 7 reports that predate recent testing. The testing was done on the land recently. I don't care what was on the land 25 years ago. If it didn't come up in the recent testing, what ever the NSFOC hopes to find on the land 25 years ago is not there now. There was pesticide on the Tall Grass land 25 years ago. There was fertilizer on the Tall Grass land 25 years ago. What does that have to do with today?

And to those that take offense that Dr. D doesn't agree with just 9 plaintiffs and thier supporters, the over whelming majority of the district supports the school board and not the entitled nine. I still can't believe my tax dollars have to go to defend a lawsuit brought by nine selfish self centered homeowners that believe that thier right to the shiny new high school trumps the districts need for a new high school. I commend the school board for putting the district first and 9 selfish people second. My tax dollars should go to the students not Tall Grass attorneys. Keep up the fight Dr D.

To: Anonymous on April 10, 2008 9:47 AM

I don't know what numbers you're looking at but the population spike of our kids hasn't happened and won't for a few more years. I believe the kids that are currently in 4th and 5th grade are the largest spike in our population. To add portable classrooms is very costly and for that many years almost equals what a 3rd HS would be. Then after that we still have about 10,000 kids still in 2 HS. That's not even taking into effect if certain areas start to grow again and the housing market picks back up.

If you are so against a third HS or your taxes going up then maybe you should move to a different school district. The HS was voted for and passed.

I'm surprised no one responded to my post yesterday. This concerns me more then anything that I had no takers....

How about all of us try and assist and help our own school board fight the Brach Trust and Brodie Trust? Afterall, this will surely effect us equally no matter where or when or if the 3rd HS is built. Think a HS will make our taxes go up. Add that to 2 additional lawsuits and over priced land at BB if we are forced to purchase it.

While our SB could have/should have handled some things possibly different during those 2 years they tried to aquire the land on all of our behalf. It doesn't mean we can't all support them now, does it? I for one don't want to see the Brach and Brodie Trust live off our money when it should be going towards our kids.

I would personally like to see a few members from the NSFOC organization and those that created the NSFOCfraud group to get together. Let's all help the school board and cast our differences aside for a moment. We all need to heal people and this is the only way I can see all of us pulling together for a common cause and fight how much BB is trying to steal from all of us!!!

Any takers? I'm willing.

to You're just wrong:

You may want to check with the SB-SD, or do an FOIA for their population projections from their meeting March 2008. 10,400 was a worst case scenario, and by their own projections less than 30 days ago the maximum HS population is now a little over 8900 and not until 2013.

So if you're going to rant, at least have the right numbers.

btw..I still agree we need a 3rd high school, but you need to stay up to date on your numbers, because as the data is released, using 10,400 is embarassingly wrong.

I guess we can figure out why his contract in Kentucky wasn't renewed.

Dr. Daeschner is a disgrace. He has (along with the help of the school board) destroyed our district.

I had a bad feeling back in July when he moved public comment to the end of the board meetings. I knew then he did not want to hear from any of us.

GO BACK TO KENTUCKY OR BETTER YET- ALASKA!

I'm with "Come on, People!" If people want to continue to hurl online insults at each other, I suppose that is their right. It seems like a much more intelligent and productive option to band together and protect our tax dollars agains the BB lawsuit. Ideas on how to do this?

Let's not forget that Dr. D is a carpetbagger and won't be here for long. Those of us who are long term residents have more say in this matter than he ever will.

Let's also not forget that the Superintendent serves at the pleasure of the SB so he can not question or challenge them or they will throw him out in a heartbeat. He is between a rock and a hard place because he has no choice but to fly the flag and support whatever the SB does regardless of his own personal opinion.

Thank you Dr D. for spelling out how insignificant this small group is.

If you stopped every time someone sued you, this country would be at a standstill.

Keep going on as business as usual. Even after the high school is built, they'll probably sue because you didn't use the right quality of brick. It just goes on and on.

For SC:

yes, I have a suggestion as to how. Hire a new set of attorneys and have them do the negotiation with the BB trust to put the darn school where it belongs. Negotiate away the the penalties by doing what we told them, the state of Illinois, the courts and the people here we were going to do.
Abandon the site where none of us would build our home, and return to the site where the SB and BB both agree is the right site.
It would work under the Illinois Build Smart program, require no remediation, lessen future transportation costs by as much as 13% per year over AME-MWGEN.

Do not send the same negotiation team who initially responded to negotiations by condemning the land then wondering why BB was ticked off.

How's that for a start ? And please don't counter with the we can't afford it mantra- the SB already told the courts they could, and neither you nor anyone else has seen an independent accounting of all costs...

" I hope that you do not construe those who have pursued litigation against the Administration and Board as not caring very deeply about their children..." taken from the first posting...

I don't think anyone doubts that those nine who have pursued litigation against the Administration and Board(as well as all of the residents and their children too!) care very deeply for THEIR chldren. They just don't seem to care much about anyone else's.

I think the NSFOC effectively took a lot of the heat off some of the school board decisions. People were deeply offended that a disgruntled few would go to the extreme of filing a lawsuit that we all get to pay to defend without consulting us first. Aren't they doing the same thing they blame the school board of doing?
The difference of course, is that we voted for the school board members to make decisions for us in regards to our school district...nobody asked these nine people to speak for all of us, let alone pay for them to do it!

I think there are probably some that would love to see these people not get what they want and there are probably even more that may hope they do...this keeps them sequestered in their own area ...away from the rest of us.

Another quote I found disturbing in the first letter was... " Quite frankly, but for your comment in regards to entitlement at the February 19th Board meeting, I am not sure whether the NSFOC group would have successfully formed, yet alone litigation would have been filed against the District."

Are you serious?!! Do you mean to tell me that NSFOC formed their group and filed litigation because of an entitlement comment? This would be extremely egostistical, arrogant, and self serving if true. As if they needed to stand up and defend their character and pride? Let's just say that sure "backfired".
Lots of folks witnessed their antics during the 2006 meetings. It was publicly heard that "we bought in the Neuqua district and we deserve to go there". Indifference to a few "whiners" has ultimately become a total lack of respect.

Whether this group wants to admit it or not...their actions have revitalized support by many residents for the school board as we do recognize that at least all along they have been trying to do what's best for ALL of our kids, by building a third high school to benefit ALL OF THE DISTRICT'S CHILDREN.

NO, I don't doubt for a moment that the nsfoc folks care very deeply for their children.

For SC:

yes, I have a suggestion as to how. Hire a new set of attorneys and have them do the negotiation with the BB trust to put the darn school where it belongs. Negotiate away the the penalties by doing what we told them, the state of Illinois, the courts and the people here we were going to do.
Abandon the site where none of us would build our home, and return to the site where the SB and BB both agree is the right site.
It would work under the Illinois Build Smart program, require no remediation, lessen future transportation costs by as much as 13% per year over AME-MWGEN.

Do not send the same negotiation team who initially responded to negotiations by condemning the land then wondering why BB was ticked off.

How's that for a start ? And please don't counter with the we can't afford it mantra- the SB already told the courts they could, and neither you nor anyone else has seen an independent accounting of all costs...

Same old people, stating the same old things on EVERY post on the Metea property.

Time to get some new material and do something with your lives other than sitting in front of this blog for the ENTIRE day EVERY day.

Geez people. Really. There are many things you can do that are much more meaningful and more impactful than blogging about this subject.

Time to get a new topic of discussion on these blogs...and not a new twist on the old topic either.

There are other things in the world to discuss than Metea Valley.

To: Save us from Ourselves on April 10, 2008 11:06 AM

SC... said he agreed with me. However, as you will notice I did not take a side on how I feel or where I feel the 3rd HS should be.

As I stated we need to come together and help the school board from the BB Trust's that seek an amount of money that all of us will pay above and beyond a 3rd HS. First things first, right? Sadly, I feel that if we don't fight the Brach and Brodie Trusts no HS will ever be built because IPSD would have to pass at least 2 more referendums.

I guess I just have to realize that some people will not rest their personal agendas because (as you have shown me) those are far more important then the whole IPSD and the bigger issue at hand which is paying the BB lawyers and their trusts.

MIDWEST GEN PULLED OUT OF EOLA DEAL TODAY!!

By nsfoc... but they just want what's best for THEIR kids! on April 10, 2008 11:14 AM
GREAT POST!!!

To: nsfoc... but they just want what's best for THEIR kids! on April 10, 2008 11:14 AM

"Lots of folks witnessed their antics during the 2006 meetings. It was publicly heard that "we bought in the Neuqua district and we deserve to go there". Indifference to a few "whiners" has ultimately become a total lack of respect."

______________________

I agreee!! Funny how most people that attended those meetings in 2005 and 2006 forget the way that the TG residents acted during those meetings. Shouting, walking out, cursing at the school board saying "this was not over". You can point fingers at the Brookdale residents for not wanting their middle school to be split up but they did it with respect by wearing (orange) t-shirts and had signs. They were never disrespectful. I don't live any where near either subdivision but I remember all too well.

The attitude towards 1 neighborhood starte over 3 years ago because of the way a majority of TG residents were acting. Notice I don't say all. I honestly saw this NSFOC group forming a long time ago. It was only a matter of time. Fast forward to 2008 and the members who formed the NSFOC (mostly TG residents) didn't get their way and they school board had made a decision to draw up different boundaries that they were not happy with. Well, it was just like 205-2006 all over again. Therefore the formation of the NSFOC.

Sorry NSFOC it has always been about your children it has always been about your taxes and it has always been about what you feel you deserve. I'm sorry but Dr. D nailed it when he used the word "entitlement".

Regarding Dr. Daeschner's long-awaited coming out email yesterday where he indicates:

...I have been reluctant to share my commentary on the matter. Until now." ...I'll be bringing you accurate information based on facts." My question is …what did you really say that was newsworthy in your long awaited message? Nothing!!

You cited statistics and sentiments that we already know and have about our density, schools, kids, faculty and staff. Are you a cheerleader or a well-paid executive public official? BTW, you have very little credit to take for this since you are a newbie. Unfortunately, and as usual, when you do speak you say little to nothing to quell the outstanding concerns and questions raised by parents, tax payers or the NSFOC. Your consistent documented response is its all “misinformation". What about the 3 (and possibly more) lawsuits which your management has provoked??

Thank goodness for the efforts of committed parents and the NSFOC for their tireless and organized research and due diligence to guide the proper construction of a new HS. I too have attended the futile SB meetings to learn you REALLY don't care what’s on the minds of your audience. You and your colleagues have adjourned SB meetings in record time when people have gathered and waited for hours to be heard or learn new relevant details about the looming questions and concerns raised. You require people to pre-register at an unreasonable time most likely to deter public commentary and ad-hoc dialog and thinking. Did you ever consider the possibility of real value coming from a forum supporting ad-hoc questions? Of course not, because the SB normally comes with prepared statements that have been stratically crafted to say nothing new except... 'please keep holding your breathe while we proceed with making the Aug 2009 opening'. You’re deliberate nature and coldness is coming through loud and clear. You obviously have hidden alliances, agendas and motives which in the end will be discovered. It's just a matter of time.

Finally, you need to personally take responsibility why everything is now being played out by lawyers and the media. Remember, the papers have been filed by lawyers because the SB reluctance to share pertinent information on due diligence with the very taxpayers that elected you into office and pay for your cushy incomes and because you have shunned legitimate concern as disingenuous. I'm personally astounded with your and Metzker’s demeanor as D204 executives. Your lack of openness and compassion for parental and tax payer concerns is alarming and revolting.

Good luck in the future whatever you and Metzker decide to do. I mean this. I forgive you and want to be forgiven for any personal misunderstandings. But please, do anything executive-like in the future except pretend you understand the needs and compassion of our D204 community. In my opinion the 2 of you have squandered this elected privilege.

Just heard Midwest Gen has decided not to sell their 37 acres to district 204.

Come on People think....

You are absolutely correct. This is something that everyone needs to be concerned about. This is money these BB lawyers are trying to take from our kids to pad their pockets.They are manipulating our legal system at the expense of this public school district's educational funds. Period.
I would think everyone would have to take issue with this.

For all of those who keep singing the NSFOC's praises you are clueless!!!

They are suing our school district and everyone of us!!

Their lawsuit is to satisfy thier own self interests?

If you can disagree with either of these 2 statements and give me a good reason why I should support them especially as it relates to the second point, then I will run out and join them.

Until then, the majority of the district will continue to disagree with everything the NSFOC stands for and is doing to the children, parents and teachers of IPSD. Now I will suppose you will try to turn it around and blame the SB. What the NSFOC is doing is a slap in the face to everyone!!! The SB has always tried to do what is in the best interest of all of us. What the NSFOC is doing is only for their best interests.

Dr. Daeschner says nothing, again!

Regarding Dr. Daeschner's long-awaited coming out email yesterday where he indicates ...I have been reluctant to share my commentary on the matter. Until now." ...I'll be bringing you accurate information based on facts." My question is …what did you really say that was newsworthy in your long awaited message? Nothing!!

You cited statistics and sentiments that we already know and have about our density, schools, kids, faculty and staff. Are you a cheerleader or a well-paid executive? BTW, you have very little credit to take for this since you are a newbie. Unfortunately, and as usual, when you do speak you say little to nothing to quell the outstanding concerns and questions raised by parents, tax payers or the NSFOC. Your consistent documented response is its all “misinformation".

Thank goodness for the efforts of committed parents and the NSFOC for their tireless research and due diligence to support the proper construction of a new HS. I too have attended the futile SB meetings to learn you really don't care what’s on the minds of your audience. You and your colleagues have adjourned SB meetings in record time when people have gathered and waited for hours to be heard or learn new relevant details about the looming questions and concerns raised. You require people to pre-register at an unreasonable time most likely to deter public commentary and ad-hoc dialog and thinking. Did you ever consider the possibility of real value coming from a forum ad-hoc questions can be entertained? Of course not, because the SB normally comes with prepared statements. You’re deliberate nature and coldness is coming through loud and clear.

Finally, you need to personally take responsibility why everything is now being played out by lawyers and the media. Remember, the papers have been filed by lawyers because the SB reluctance to share pertinent information on due diligence with the very taxpayers that elected you into office and pay for your cushy incomes and because you have shunned legitimate concern as disingenuous. I'm personally astounded with your and Metzker’s demeanor as D204 executives. Your lack of openness and compassion for parental and tax payer concerns is alarming and revolting.

Good luck in the future whatever you and Metzker decide to do. I mean this. I forgive you and want to be forgiven for any personal misunderstandings. But please, do anything executive-like in the future except pretend you understand the needs and compassion of our D204 community. In my opinion the 2 of you have squandered your elected privilege.

It is with heartfelt appreciation to the leaders of Midwest Generation that we are able to confirm that Midwest Generation has terminated negotiations with District 204 and will not be proceeding with the sale of this property for the purpose of hosting a school location.

As many of us have communicated from the start, this land was and is not appropriate to be used a a site for a school.

As we move forward, hopefully we can come together as a District and start rowing our oars in the same direction.

Is there anyone out there in the construction trade. Let me know if there is any chance this baby is going to be built in a 15-16 month timetable. Thanks.

I would just like to remind everyone that Dr. Daeschner is merely doing the job he was hired to do. Sure, he is divisive,arrogant and abrasive to anyone who disagrees with him. Those are characteristics that go along with being forceful. Our board wanted a forceful Superintendent for the 2007 to 2010 contract period they hired him for, which is why they chose him over other candidates.

Here's the real truth. The AME/Midwest sites became available in late 2006, while IPSD was in the middle of litigation with Brach-Brodie. The Macom site also became available at that same time and was summarily rejected. Our board continued to pursue Brach-Brodie, but their intent was already questionable in early 2007. Our board was at the altar of getting quick-take authority in early 2007, but backed away because that would have required a binding commitment to pay the jury price. Our board was supposed to put up $600k per acre in an escrow account but didn't do so. It was at that point, in Feb-07, that Dr. Daeschner was hired.

After being hired, Dr. Daeschner chose a home within a half mile of this AME/Midwest property, despite the fact that there were literally hundreds of similar homes for sale much closer to the district offices. Then in Sep-07 Dr. Daeschner began formally negotiating to buy the AME-Midwest site, according to his powerpoint. We don't know if that was before or after the jury verdict on the land price, but since the jury verdict was the 27th of September, it was likely before. Hopefully that will come out in discovery at some point.

The district pretended to take a month to think about it, but it seems from the start date of testing on the Midwest property that the board immediately rejected Brach-Brodie after the jury verdict, if not before. The board said they would look at other sites and in November the district announced the site selection criteria and process. Dr. Daeschner had 'courtesy' discussions with owners of other sites in October and November, but let's be honest, the AME-Midwest site had already been chosen. On January 15th (the Tuesday before a holiday weekend), Daeschner announced he'd recommend the AME-Midwest site to the board. He gave the public one week to comment. Most of the public anyway. At least one neighborhood that would obviously be in favor of the project was given a day's head start. The board supposedly saw his recommendation for the first time at that point as well. The board voted in its favor the following Tuesday, just 7 days later.

The key criteria used by Daeschner and the board to justify the AME-Midwest site over the cheaper Hamman site was the fact that Hamman could not be ready for 2009. The reason given for why Hamman might not be ready was the fact that no environmental testing had been done. But the district had already completed (and possibly paid for)testing on the AME-Midwest site. In addition to the artificial 2009 deadline, the reason that AME-Midwest site was chosen over the Macom site was the fact that it was slightly more expensive. Brach-Brodie was rejected because it exceeded an artificial $146.4mn ceiling for the cost of Metea by about $10mn. For those who like to note that the specific language of the referendum doesn't specifically state a site, you should know that the referendum doesn't specifically state a purchase amount for the high school, either. The referendum merely asked for a $123mn bond. The district has a surplus of over $90mn and could have easily applied $10mn from that surplus to the high school if the board had wanted to.

In his arguments supporting the AME-Midwest site, Dr. Daeschner cited "efficient boundaries" as an argument in favor of it, while he cited difficulty in creating "contiguous" boundaries as arguments against Hamman and Macom. This suggests that boundary plans had already been evaluated and could have been presented to the board at the same time the site selection was. But presumably the board wanted the site and boundary decisions bifurcated to enable it to quickly pass the resolution to buy the AME-Midwest land.

Whoever decided to bifurcate the land-boundary decision was very smart, because the boundary decision did stir tremendous community scrutiny. Imagine if the community had been actively involved in calculating comparative bussing costs, comparative environmental remediation costs, comparative school scores and comparative boundaries of the various sites at the same time. The AME-Midwest site probably wouldn't have been chosen.

Dr. Daeschner was happy to trumpet the site selection, but he let Kathi Birkett take the heat on the boundaries. Her boundary proposal was publicized on Feb-12 (again before another holiday weekend). The public was again given a week to comment and then the board made a quick one-night decision to approve his proposal. The previous boundary process had taken weeks of public input, weeks of meetings and a number of iterations before it was approved by a split board. The fact that the board approved the boundaries with only one minor change and with minimal discussion tells you all you need to know. Birkett's proposal was Daeschner's proposal, which was the board's own proposal. That proposal was probably implicitly agreed amongst board members in early 2007 when they backed away from using quick-take, hired Daeschner and sent him house hunting in the neighborhood where he now resides.

My conclusion from all this history is that the location and boundaries chosen were not Daeschner's decisions. They were probably mostly Board President Metzger's, but he obviously was able to convince his fellow board members effectively. So why would Metzger have decided in early 2007 to weasle out of Brach-Brodie and engineer a process that would lead to AME-Midwest. I don't have a sufficient answer. I laughed when some opponents of the boundaries wanted to get Lisa Madigan to investigate. Now I think that is exactly what should happen. This smells like a Tony Rezko type of situation. I only hope the local bank tellers will monitor our board members' bank transactions as diligently as Elliot Spitzer's tellers monitored his.

By Right On on April 10, 2008 11:42 AM
To: nsfoc... but they just want what's best for THEIR kids! on April 10, 2008 11:14 AM

"Lots of folks witnessed their antics during the 2006 meetings. It was publicly heard that "we bought in the Neuqua district and we deserve to go there". Indifference to a few "whiners" has ultimately become a total lack of respect."

______________________

I agreee!! Funny how most people that attended those meetings in 2005 and 2006 forget the way that the TG residents acted during those meetings. Shouting, walking out, cursing at the school board saying "this was not over". You can point fingers at the Brookdale residents for not wanting their middle school to be split up but they did it with respect by wearing (orange) t-shirts and had signs. They were never disrespectful. I don't live any where near either subdivision but I remember all too well.

The attitude towards 1 neighborhood starte over 3 years ago because of the way a majority of TG residents were acting. Notice I don't say all. I honestly saw this NSFOC group forming a long time ago. It was only a matter of time. Fast forward to 2008 and the members who formed the NSFOC (mostly TG residents) didn't get their way and they school board had made a decision to draw up different boundaries that they were not happy with. Well, it was just like 205-2006 all over again. Therefore the formation of the NSFOC.

Sorry NSFOC it has always been about your children it has always been about your taxes and it has always been about what you feel you deserve. I'm sorry but Dr. D nailed it when he used the word "entitlement".
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

I hope you are not one of our neighbors. Do you realize how stupid you make us look. I don't think 15 people or less walking out of a meeting a few years back, after being provoked by negative comments from the SB constitutes a majority of TG residents. I was there too and sat next to friends of mine who live there. Great People with good common sense. A shame those few felt they had to act the way they did but you can't label a whole subdivision like that. What would people say about us. I don't recall reading any blogs that came out and Bashed us without provocation. Let's get back to being housewives and stop pretending these blogs help mend fenses with our neighbors by beating the TG is bad drum. Its just flat wrong.

To COME ON PEOPLE...THINK on April 10, 2008 10:29 AM--

While I appreciate your attitude of wanting to unite the district for a common cause, I don't think assisting our school board fight the Brach Trust and Brodie Trust is an appropriate venue. According to Daeschner's own statements, he expects there will be -0- damages awarded to the B&B trusts as a result of the SD tying up their land for two years in condemnation proceedings, winning the jury verdict, and then changing their minds. Daeschner doesn't think BB will get a cent, much less be living off our money. At the very most, the board has budgeted 5 million for these expenses, a drop in the bucket considering the many millions the SB has at its disposal.

I've heard it said that you can't solve a problem until you acknowledge it, and the SB definitely does not acknowledge a $40 million damage complaint as a problem. The very fact that you see this as a threat indicates to me that you're more in touch with reality than Daeschner and Metzger are, but unfortunately you're not the one making the decisions.

Thanks for the offer, but I'll pass.

Mid West Gen just pulled out of the contract so it just doesn't matter anymore - we are back to square one!

Dollars and Sense. The $40 million you mention is what the developer would have paid to buy the land. For the BB trust to be entitled to $40 million, they would have to say/prove that the land is now worthless.

Moderator Jim: Are we going to have to wait for tomorrow to hear the big news, or are you going to post it online?

Moderator Jim: In the last hour or so there have been multiple postings that Midwest generation has pulled out of the 204 HS deal. We cannot post these comments until we confirm this development. Just be patient and if any of you bloggers have solid information regarding this evolving story, don't hesitate to contact us. Thanks.

Stonebrook Corner,
I don't think Right On was implying that ALL TG residents are also all nsfoc members.The point was that the actions of a few bad apples unfortunately and unfairly reflected poorly on the subdivision's name.
The statements were directed toward the nsfoc lawsuit filers....not the subdivision as a whole, obviously.The post even stated that.(...."Notice I didn't say all")
I personally know many residents there that do not agree with this group at all.I feel bad for the situation they have been put it.What a nightmare!
These statements were also not unprovoked. They are in response to a certain lawsuit filed against all of us.

To Anon on 4/10 at 12:52 PM--

All the same, this is what they are suing for. I really don't think they'll get this either, but I can't believe they'll get $0, and I think it's very likely they'll get more than the $5 million that is budgeted. And keep in mind this is just from the Brodie Trust, the $40.2 million figure does not include the Brach Trust damages.

1. Ref failed 2005
2. Ref failed in 2006 (BB was marketed as to what created a yes vote, that is obvious, as it was determined that the school site and boundaries needed to be determined before voters would vote yes).
3. So, let's say it again - 2005 failed. 2006 failed
4. 2006 the vote was "yes" with 100% voter perception at BB land, and boundaries.

Again, if in the marketing of the ref they had said *may be built near TOXIC DUMP near I88 Exp and **these boundaries for BB are only if we can buy the bb land then it would be one thing.

Dr. Dashner will be suing the SB. Mark my word. His career is ruined. After he's done supporting a Board who tears up a community, no one in their right mind would hire this guy. Thus, he may know this. Which is why he's siding with the unilateral decision making of a couple rogue board members.

I can't believe the sb and Dashner (Phd, c'mon) - I'd like to know where it's from. The Ed program he went to I'm sure did not say build schools on toxic dumps for school children.

Lastly, my gosh, you know how desperate Dahner is when he calls NSFOC 200-300 members. That tells you something - which is they (sb) needs to spin the opposite. For him to insult the group means they are worried about the group. Also, last count I heard was over 3000 individual donors.

Let me say that again - 3,000 donors. Who do you think is paying the lawyer? 200-300 people? Movements take on a life of their own. Obama raises it off of millions of small donations.

Embarrassing. Embarrassing. Has pride gotten to them over what thousands of residents are asking for: a fair shake.

Why would anyone attending Metea after these reports want to go there. That's a shame.

I can just see those toxic reports showing up in the research one does on district 204.

YOU LIVE IN MAY WATTS - SOMEONE GOING TO BUY A HOUSE THERE. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS SEARCH METEA VALLEY OR DISTRICT 204 AND YOU SEE A TOXIC DUMP.

BUYING A HOUSE IN BROOKDALE, SOMEONE SEARCHING SCHOOL DISTRICT THEIR KIDS ARE GOING TO ATTEND. GOOD LUCK.

One of the biggest factors when someone buys a home with kids is where do they go to school. Right now our whole district looses with this situation. Everyone. I'd run like wildfire from a district being sued and building on land that is dangerous.

Moderator Jim to Anonymous: Just confirmed it....we're putting it up at napersun.com now. Read all about it.

It's true. Midwest Gen pulled out. Feel free to contact Linda Holmes's office (use the Springfield number 217-782-0422). They'll confirm the good news! Brach Brodie here we come.

Moderator Jim: We just called - senator's office out. However, it is confirmed. Check napersun.com for details. We're posting it now.

I heard today that Midwest Generation is refusing to sell. Has this been confirmed?

if that is true that Midwest Gen pulled out because of the influence of nine people, it is a sad day in the district. I am going to get 8 of neighbors together to sue anybody and everybody to get whatever I want.

Dr. Daeschner....

The timing of your note yesterday seemed a little suspicious. "I mean...goodnight!"

I have been participating in these blogs for weeks. I have posted under a variety of names. I have posted thoughtful notes as well as flames. I have posted serious notes intended to encourage real thought as well as polemics designed to provoke and label. I have done it partly for sport, but also because I care deeply about the education of all the kids in our district. But I have been a consistent supporter of the Eola purchase. (My kids attend a school in the south unaffected by the new boundaries.)

I am now encouraging the SB to re-look at BB because I do not believe the cost difference will be significant – and with litigation looming, may be zero. Or negative. Furthermore, continuing to fight these fights saps the board of the time to do other things which will be more value-added related to our kids education.

But I find NSFOC to be reprehensible. I think most others who are not their direct supporters do as well. And I have some advice for them now that I am hoping for the same outcome they are – the purchase of BB.

- Quit trying to make something out of nothing. The environmental concerns are bogus. And I think most of you know it. But they are a very attractive target because many people are ignorant and easily scared. So you use this as an issue despite knowing it is a load of malarkey. But when you do so, you lose credibility with people who are intelligent enough to avoid succumbing to hysteria and are able to see through the smokescreen.

- Quit saying you were the victim of a legal bait-and-switch. You weren’t. That term has a very narrow legal definition, and this case does not meet it. By claiming it, you again lose credibility with people who are informed enough to know the difference and it weakens your case. However, I feel your pain. Most of you are from WE/TG and are disappointed not to go to the school you are closest to. You supported the referendum and your schools and you feel that a penny-wise but pound-foolish choice has been made.

- The school is on the far edge of the district, away from the growth. This is a fact that cannot be disputed. Use that. You will gain more support by using truthful argument.

- The Eola site is an ugly, bleak, industrial-looking site, surrounded by power lines and railroad tracks. It does not make you think……“I look forward to coming here to learn every day.” BB is far more attractive, surrounded by residential and retail. It simply feels ‘warmer.’ Aesthetics may not help your legal case, but I think it might help you gain more public support.

- The outcomes of various legal cases are uncertain. Not just your own case, but those of the estates. Even a best-case settlement narrows the cost gap between BB and Eola. A worst case outcome blows it away. The idea of rolling the dice on getting the correct legal outcome makes me queasy. I think it does most rational people in the district. Use that fact.

- Admit that both sites are workable. Argue that BB is the BEST overall choice. Avoid the hysterics and hyperbole which fills your web site and the content of most of the bog submissions here. These do not convince intelligent, rational people. They turn them off.

- Admit your agenda. You are unhappy with the boundaries. Get it out front because it is truly the elephant in the corner. Diffuse it by admitting it, and asking people to put themselves in your position – you will be going to a facility which is much further away and you don’t like it. And you don’t believe they would either. You will be pilloried by some, but at least you can avoid being called selective at best in disclosing your motives or liars at worst.

- Quit demonizing the SB. They are not demons and they do not deserve your spiteful comments. This will not help you in your cause. The members of the SB were elected by you to be your representatives. If you don’t like the job they are doing, vote them out and do a better job selecting next time around. Or go ahead and run for these unpaid positions yourself and experience the venom first hand. See how well you are able to keep your composure and continue to make unbiased judgments.

- Be careful who you select as your allies. You have been joined by many who do not want to see a third HS built anywhere. It makes people not hear your arguments because they distrust your motives.

Good Luck. I hope to see you all the ribbon cutting for the new BB high school.

If Linda Holmes did this I hope the voters remember this in November.

By the way, this could be good news. If the church sells the district the south portion of their land instead of the north portion then there isn't a word the entitled nine can say/do.

How sad and narcissistic are the people who created NSFOC, as well as their legal represention. They adjust and readjust their purpose to cover up their true reason for their existence. It's laughable watching the public comment portion of the Board Meeting videos prior to the new boundaries being drawn...easy to figure out who is a member of the NSFOC. Now all of the sudden, in their opinion, our new Superintendent and School Board are "bad" people. Imagine how the people affiliated with the NSFOC conduct themselves at their job or within society..."what is in it for me!" Kudos to you Dr. D. and the School Board for your allegiance to the kids in this School District and for letting your intelligence shine through in such a ridiculous situation. Read between the lines of Dr. D.'s public comments NSFOC; you are already good at turning something into nothing. Lastly, it appears that the writers covering this story at the NS also have some type of personal connection with the NSFOC...probably why the people writing, editing and publishing the "stories" work at a "local" newspaper rather than one that requires seasoned and unbiased reporting. O.K. now, read the rebuttals following this e-mail from the NSFOC (Narcissistic Superficial Folks Overtop Constituents)...they demonstrate why they are who they are.

Now that Midwest Generation is out and the Eola site is not an option - I would urge the School Board to think this through. Don't rush into another hasty decision.

Answer the following questions logically and rationally - putting aside your petty political and geographicl considerations - which means you need to think beyond Brookdale, Springbrook, Aurora, WE/TG, or whatever your favorite constutuency is. Perhaps the best approach is to hand this whole effort over to a third party consultancy which does not report to the School board to ensure impartiality-

1. Do we really need a third high school or is there a better alternative in the short term?

2. If yes, then how can we make the original BB proposal work. That was what was marketed by the school board originally, though it was carefully (and politically expediently) left out of the specific referendum wording. Since people bought into that site and boundary proposal the school board should seriously examine all options to make this happen. The additional consideration now is the fact that we will potentially face damages if we move to another site.

3. If the school board doesn't believe BB will work and the third party agrees, then look at other sites.

4. Consider other out-of-the-box soutions such as do we even need a district 204 - should we merge with district 203. Should district 204 be split. Should another referendum be held to understand what the district really wants.

The same old ramrodding will not work.

They were just out in the heavy rain survaying over the far south side of the lot!!

Moderator Jim to Anonymous: Yes, it is confirmed. Check napersun.com for details.

BB has higher EMF readings than Eola..it no longer meets the building schools safely brochure. nsfoc will not support BB per their own criteria. Glad I saved all the info. :)

The SB should seriously consider trying to work out a deal for the new and yet unopened Plainfield high school. It's almost in our District anyway. Let's face it, everything's available for a cost. We can meet the 2009 start date, it's located where the growth is, no environmental concerns, etc. Honestly, they should consider looking into it. Dr D can be the savior and still get his extra special bonus for opening a 2009 school!

Midwest Generation has decided not to sell a 37-acre portion of the property Indian Prairie School District has selected as the site of Metea Valley High School.

Midwest Generation spokesman Charley Parnell confirmed Wednesday afternoon that the company is no longer interested in selling the land.

Looks like the Eola site is dead.

This is a comment to

COME ON PEOPLE...THINK

who wrote:

How about all of us try and assist and help our own school board fight the Brach Trust and Brodie Trust? Afterall, this will surely effect us equally no matter where or when or if the 3rd HS is built.

If the district woul just buy the Brach-Brodie land for the $31mn price agreed by the jury and pay the Brach-Brodie the $3mn in attorney fees that they agreed to by contract, then the other suits and claims by Brach-Brodie would be dropped.

maybe the church will sell the district all of the land and we can sell them the part adjacent to BB that we own. Maybe they'd swap.

By DemocracyAdvocate on April 10, 2008 2:08 PM
This is a comment to

COME ON PEOPLE...THINK

who wrote:

How about all of us try and assist and help our own school board fight the Brach Trust and Brodie Trust? Afterall, this will surely effect us equally no matter where or when or if the 3rd HS is built.

If the district woul just buy the Brach-Brodie land for the $31mn price agreed by the jury and pay the Brach-Brodie the $3mn in attorney fees that they agreed to by contract, then the other suits and claims by Brach-Brodie would be dropped.

_______________________

Great post! I'm thinkin' it's time to get negotiations going again. Something tells me with the Preit deal falling through Simon and Helm just might bring the $$ down.

DEmocracy Advocate...

HMMMM. I wonder if these folks(BB attorneys) know Linda.She seems to be the common denominator in a lot of this "behind the scenes" (or so you thought) mess.....

By here's a thought on April 10, 2008 2:12 PM
maybe the church will sell the district all of the land and we can sell them the part adjacent to BB that we own. Maybe they'd swap.

_______________________________

The land the district owns (25 acres) is zoned high density residential. I don't think it's large enough to accomodate the facilities the church is interested in building.

I've also heard it's not the greatest land to build on as well.

Here it is, bloggers:

Midwest Generation has decided not to sell a 37-acre portion of the property Indian Prairie School District has selected as the site of Metea Valley High School.

Midwest Generation spokesman Charley Parnell confirmed Wednesday afternoon that the company is no longer interested in selling the land.

“I think, as you’re well aware, that this is an issue where there doesn’t seem to be consensus on what the plans are going to be going forward,” Parnell said.

"So rather than have Midwest Generation as the reason either to oppose or support the project, we think this will give all of the parties an opportunity, a chance to sit back and try to find consensus on what is or is not appropriate for the new school.”

It sounds like MWGen backed out because they didn't want to be a part of this controversy. It is interesting that Parnell's last statement sounds similar to what the NSFOC said at the very beginning, "slow down, re-think, re-do."

Eola site is far from dead. Be patient everyone. Even the entitle nine of the NSFOC know this has a great chance of working against them. They will spin this on their website as a victory but in reality is probably the nail in their coffin.

Again, it is very important to note that this is far from over. The Board and Administration have demonstrated that they are fully committed to doing whatever they have to do to avoid building on BB (whether it be out of retribution to BB or now perhaps out of spite to the NSFOC orginization or the WE/TG subdivisions).

In addition to the NSFOC lawsuit, which is primarily focused on the violation of the Illinois and Federal constitutions and established election law, there are two other lawsuits which seek upwards of 20-25 MILLION Dollars should our District fail to proceed with the purchase of BB. I believe that there is but one logical and responsible path forward here....to proceed as represeted in the 2006 referendum and allow the construction of the Metea high school on the BB land as promised and voted for by the 204 electorate. This avoids or minimizes any added transportation costs as well as the splitting of our schools.

Everyone who cares...it is time to reach out to the Board members and Administration to continue to allow your voice to be heard. Send emails, make phone calls...do whatever you have to do to get them to listen! Please demand that the gamesmanship stop and that they proceed responsibly and negotiate in good faith with BB.

When taking the Administration and Board's assurances that none of the three lawsuits have any merit and there is no exposure to the District for damages, please remember these promises as well:

"There is no way that the BB land judgement will exceed $300,000 per acre";

"We will close on the Midwest Gen land by March 19th".

"We will be breaking land on the Eola site by the beginning of April."

Time to come together as a community and support the commencement of a new school on the BB site AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. How much do we need to continue to spend to support the miscalculations and negligence of our 204 leaders???

No matter what happens, wherever the new school might go.....though I don't think we should run back to BB.....PLEASE LET'S ALL AGREE THAT TG SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO STEP FOOT IN NV OR THE NEW SCHOOL. This has nothing to do with their frivilous lawsuit, but someone should be responsible for teaching their children that "entitlement" is wrong. As Hilary Clinton once said, "it takes a village...."

By why didn't we think of that? on April 10, 2008 2:15 PM
DEmocracy Advocate...

HMMMM. I wonder if these folks(BB attorneys) know Linda.She seems to be the common denominator in a lot of this "behind the scenes" (or so you thought) mess.....

___________________________________

Seems everyone is so quick to cast Linda Holmes as the villian.

Just last week I heard she was responsible for global warming and the war in Iraq. Also heard she's the real reason for the unrest between Israel and the Palestinians.

The blame for this debacle goes to the leaders of 204 that got us into this mess.

Just wait until Linda Holmes has to go under the scrutiny of what's coming next.

Her campaign donations will be scrutinized.

She will be questioned on all her conversations/correspondance with all representatives of Midwest Gen.

All her aides will be questioned on all conversations/correspondance with all represtatives of Midwest Gen.

The Midwest Gen people will be questioned on all conversations/correspondance with Linda Holmes and all of her aides.

When a corporation agrees to sit on land that will be tough to sell because of 9 individuals and thier lawyer, one has to ask if Linda Holmes threatened to stop other Illinois projects of Midwest Gen. Does anyone on this blog believe a company that has to answer to shareholders would walk away from the millions of dollars of this land just because of 9 entitled homeowners and some supporters?

Hang on folks...this is going to get good.

Am I the only one who noticed that Charlie Parnell's quote on the NaperSun site is cited as being from WEDNESDAY afternoon? Today is Thursday. Either that's a typo or this news has been on ice for a while. Strange.

Note from host:

Big Mike, you are the first one to notice our mistake, which we are correcting. Thanks for the heads up.

There will be no 3rd HS in D204! Mark my words. NOt on BB or anywhere else.

Live with it.

To: Do What's Right 4/10/08 2:25pm

"No matter what happens, wherever the new school might go.....though I don't think we should run back to BB.....PLEASE LET'S ALL AGREE THAT TG SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO STEP FOOT IN NV OR THE NEW SCHOOL. This has nothing to do with their frivilous lawsuit, but someone should be responsible for teaching their children that "entitlement" is wrong. As Hilary Clinton once said, "it takes a village...."
------------------------------------------------

You need to get a hold of yourself. Go take a walk. You're talking like a crazy person.

Hopefully the school board is not bullied into purchasing BB. We will continue to see what kind of leaders they really are.

So now it's time to heal and move forward with BB, ha. Is the school board suppose to roll over after NSFOC, and "public officials" spoiled the Midwest deal. I think not.

Nice response. What are you, some kind of idiot?

By Do what's right on April 10, 2008 2:25 PM
No matter what happens, wherever the new school might go.....though I don't think we should run back to BB.....PLEASE LET'S ALL AGREE THAT TG SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO STEP FOOT IN NV OR THE NEW SCHOOL. This has nothing to do with their frivilous lawsuit, but someone should be responsible for teaching their children that "entitlement" is wrong. As Hilary Clinton once said, "it takes a village...."

_______________________________

Uh, that would be called "retaliation by a public official". It would also be considered illegal and most certainly would prompt a multitude of lawsuits.

I live in Tall Grass and am not an NSFOC member. I'd most certainly be calling Mr. Collins for legal advice if I was retaliated against.

Something stinks that about Midwest pulling out of the deal over a small portion of the community not happy about the new site and calling the community deeply divided. You might as well forget the BB site too. Some other group will rise up and sue the district over the property and hold up construction again. So, here's a solution. Face the real problem and name every high school in the district "Neuqua" so we can move on with our lives.

Midwest was smart to back out. Here comes the new high school on BB. It's what the voters voted for in 2006. The SB absolutely represented to the public a yes vote on the referndum was a yes vote for BB. It's time to move forward and do the right thing. SB it's time to undo many of your wrongs and make them right.

to do whats right , once again people are trying to drag whole subdivisions into this mess, not all of tallgrass is responsible for nsfoc or public diplays at meetings. so where is it that you can try and have a whole subdivision banned from attending a public school that my tax money is paying for? lets all agree that they can not step foot into nv or any new high school?let me tell you it is posts like yours not for fear of going to any ipsd school that is slowly changing my love of living in this community..............

Seems everyone is so quick to cast Linda Holmes as the villian
>>>>>>>>>
He has publicly stated that she has communication with Midwest Gen. Do the math. Tall Grass is in her district but the north side part of IPSD is not...she communicates with Midwest Gen and the property is pulled off the market because Midwest Gen says that the residents of IPSD do not know what they want.

I can just see the next shareholders meeting: "Hey shareholders, we had a chance to unload property we do not need and do want anymore and put a couple of million dollars into the bank but we decided that we did not want to sell because some people who live miles away thought it was a bad idea."

Thank you NSFOC or whatever your name really is. Thank you for whining loud enough and long enough. Thank you for derailing 4 years of preparation, planning, time, and uncountable hours given by our ELECTED officials.

Oh that's right, you're group is better informed and unbiased. Your group (200+ strong) is more important than the 25,000 students in our school district who will face split shifts, portable classrooms, class sizes up to 35, limited participation in extra-cirricular activities, limited electives in school, and schools the size of small cities.

Good for you. Great job.

Ask your kids in a couple of years how they like their school. Oh wait, then you will be upset that the portable classrooms are too far away, there aren't enough music or art classes, and there isn't any space on the soccer team.

Again, good job.

To do what's right 2:25

You make it sound like by TG going to WV their being punished. No new school or NV. You must have issues with WV being a bad school. Just to let you know it's NOT. Of course you must be a Hilary supporter.

I appreciate the passion that many of the comments convey effectively, but let me give you two more things to think about.

(1) Our high schools, particularly Neuqua, are overcrowded. The capacity for both HS is 3,000 and we are well over that. The reputation of district 204 continues to attract new, young families to take the places of our "empty nesters." Anyone who disagrees should take the time to experience navigating the hallways to find your kid's guidance counselor.

(2) It's fine to purchase the BB land, but that cuts the budget for the building itself. It's no secret that the land will cost a lot more than what was planned and the district has a finite amount of money in the building fund. Where will they save money? The structure itself. Will us parents be satisfied with that?

By Do what's right on April 10, 2008 2:25 PM
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

This is the same BS the SB got us into by segregation of TG and WE. All votes count and will be heard. Not just yours! Why stir the pot more by acting like an idiot. No one is making a hard fast rule against one group or another. You have been watching too much television. Thinking you can vote off 1000 homes from you're little island is Selfish and Elitist. Ha, Ha. The very thing you accuse TG and WE of being. Did you think before you wrote or are just this plain dumb.

To those of you villifying Linda Holmes, please remember one thing. She was the the person who championed the district's cause with the legislature to get quick-take authority. She worked tirelessly on this issue and became intimately familiar with the people and issues surrounding the construction of Metea. Unfortunately, when it came time for Mark Metzger to sign on the dotted line and promise that the district would pay whatever price the jury agreed to, he backed out. All the months that Linda Holmes put in to the project ended up wasted. Could you blame her if she felt used?

One other point. What if the district had built (or still does build) on the Eola Road property and then the judges in the various law suits rule against the district? The taxpayers will be out millions of wasted dollars. What if the district owes Brach-Brodie $20mn in settlement money and then has to abandon a semi-complete building due to the NSFOC suit, which has bait-and-switch (not environmental safety) as its primary basis? Linda Holmes may well be saving us A LOT of money people!

The latest news on Midwest Generation deciding not to sell the land should finally demonstrate to everyone what incompetence we have running the SB and that the Super. Dr. D is way beyond incompetent.

Stop the insanity go back to the table with BB.

Don't worry Anonymous at 2:48. No one is going to retaliate. Your neighbors have sealed your fate of being assigned to WVHS when the 3rd high school is a distant dream. That was one of the remedies they asked for in their suit so your neighbors must be happy with that result.

By hey By Do what's right on April 10, 2008 2:25 PM on April 10, 2008 2:47 PM
Nice response. What are you, some kind of idiot?

Name calling oh so classy. Looking good over there.

This is by far the most inept school board I have ever seen (o.k., maybe the last board was a bit worse). I'm not sure if they're just stupid (which I can't imagine), or getting REALLY bad advise. The only lawsuit I can see having any real potential is a suit against the board members for professional misconduct. Don't sue the school district, just the members. I don't feel "We" need to be the ones footing the bill for their constant mistakes and miscalculations. Our taxes will be skyrocketing because of all these problems and I don't feel the district parents should have to pay for it.

Just remember when Election Day rolls around and you’re sitting on your rump not going out to vote. You have NO RIGHT to complain about the school board. Next election…. Tell them how you feel.

I am not an NSFOC member too, but I will definitely support them and join the parade with them.
To me, very sadly, what the district and the board have told the community are all lies. They only want thing going their way without consider the public's concerns and reactions.

I believe more people will join NSFOC if more district information are shared in timely manner.

Also, don't forget those silent Neaque families.
Try to put their children in the proposed new high school to see how they react. Don't count those people yet.
I believe Dr. D is as smart as I am (a Ph.D.), and he knows the real number but he simply ignores it and try to deceive the community.

A high school will last for many decades before toring down, and our children's health can't be compensated once damaged.
Why rush?
Is there any dirty secrets behind the door?

I am not an NSFOC member too, but I will definitely support them and join the parade with them.
To me, very sadly, what the district and the board have told the community are all lies. They only want thing going their way without consider the public's concerns and reactions.

I believe more people will join NSFOC if more district information are shared in timely manner.

Also, don't forget those silent Neaque families.
Try to put their children in the proposed new high school to see how they react. Don't count those people yet.
I believe Dr. D is as smart as I am (a Ph.D.), and he knows the real number but he simply ignores it and try to deceive the community.

A high school will last for many decades before toring down, and our children's health can't be compensated once damaged.
Why rush?
Is there any dirty secrets behind the door?

To NSFOC or whatever you are calling yourselves,
Are you happy with the outcome of your whining and complaining? Are you content that Midwest GEn has dropped the land agreement due to your malicious attacks on their professional reputation?

Will you be content when your high school is the size of a small city? When classrooms will routinely have 35 kids? When your precious child isn't able to participate in extracirricular activities? When your child gets the opportunity to participate in split sessions? Individual attention- gone. Quality teachers- gone. Quality special programs- gone.

But that's right, your group is educated in environmental law and school efficiency. Your group was formed, what 2 whole months ago? Golly what experience you have. Our elected officials have been working on this for 4 years. But that's right, you know best.

Ask your student in 3-4 years how they like school. Remember this is for them. Thanks, thanks, a lot.

Good for you. By golly, your group (200+) has spoken for 25,000 students.

everyone should check out the letter by Midwest Gen. I see grounds for a suit against the NSFOC. Anybody else see that? I hope the D204 attorneys see that.

I highly doubt Linda Holmes had anything to do with this. I think MidwestGen was tired of getting e-mails and calls from everyone and probably did not need the hassel.

Either way, I am so glad that MidwestGen said they were not going to sell the land. I would venture to say they were listening unlike our School Board. It is time to find a safe location for our kids.

Thanks MidwestGen!

Through out this 3rd high school saga with District 204, and especially lately, the Naperville Sun has done an absolutely exemplary job of covering all sides of the issues in a balanced and fair manner.
My heartfelt thank you to Tim Waldorf, Moderator Jim and the Editors of the Sun. May you shine on....

The School Board of District 204 needs to step aside. What an unbelievable mess.

How about we teardown eighty acres worth of homes in White Eagle and Tall Grass and build the high school in those subdivisions?

The families that give up their property could live in the high school and shower in the new locker rooms of the Metea Valley every morning.

By Anonymous on April 10, 2008 2:31 PM
Just wait until Linda Holmes has to go under the scrutiny of what's coming next.

Her campaign donations will be scrutinized.

She will be questioned on all her conversations/correspondance with all representatives of Midwest Gen.

All her aides will be questioned on all conversations/correspondance with all represtatives of Midwest Gen.

The Midwest Gen people will be questioned on all conversations/correspondance with Linda Holmes and all of her aides.

When a corporation agrees to sit on land that will be tough to sell because of 9 individuals and thier lawyer, one has to ask if Linda Holmes threatened to stop other Illinois projects of Midwest Gen. Does anyone on this blog believe a company that has to answer to shareholders would walk away from the millions of dollars of this land just because of 9 entitled homeowners and some supporters?

Hang on folks...this is going to get good.
............................................................

What! Your unbelievable. Can you use any common sense. You just keep repeating talking points against the NSFOC and TG. Who is the whinners now. Losers blame and winners win. Get a grip.

Because the NSFOC is organized and trying to make a difference you say they must be entitled. Maybe they are more entitled because they can think for themselves stand up for what they believe. Where is your organization. Don't tell me your on the BOARD. Stand for something or fall for anything.

No one is investigating this woman either. MidWest Gen must think it is best for thier business not to sell to a bunch of ninnies who can't manage their way out of a paperbag. JUST BLAME, BLAME, BLAME. Give me something I can believe in for a change.

The words of almost everyone on these boards are surprisingly aggressive. The anonynous stage does allow for that. One wonders if the same folks, in person in public, with their own children and parents there listening and watching would use the same words and accusations. Perhaps they would, perhaps they would not.

It would be worth a Sun Poll to see just how much of the population is on either side of the extremes here, and how many are just in the live and let live majority. Guessing 80% of the residents wouldn't sign on with either group, yet the entire area comes off to the readers as possibly all ill mannered and un civil.

Given the tone and content of all the "concerned parents" I wonder what they are concerned about? Providing a role model for behavior in a society and following the golden rule? Or that they grow up not living in mortal fear of walking 300 yards from a train. The environmental danger cries have been fantastic. Where is any gas station free, wi-fi hotspot free, fertilizer free, traffic-free and otherwize hazard free location exist within the District.

Oddly - I am almost certian I saw an NSFOC sign in front of Tibetan flag on the olympic torch coverage yesterday, so this issue has some reach beyond 200-300 people.

All of this sets the stage for some pretty good team names for the new school: - Any takers on kicking off suggestions?
- The Matea Valley Litigators...

It would appear that BB attorney's sure are sitting pretty now.Almost like they knew what was coming. How convenient!! Don't you think Mr. Collins?
Funny how things just "fall into place" sometimes..... I guess BB attorneys can get whatever they want if the district does in fact go back to BB.The sky's the limit! You guys have probably never met though. Ever heard of Linda?This will definitely get worse before (if)it gets better....

I think the members of the NSFOC used these words in 2006 and 2008..."THIS IS NOT OVER YET". You think there aren't going to be more lawsuits...wait.

I live in the north and as with all the other neighborhoods in the north except Brookdale, we voted "YES" in 2006 for a 3rd HS. Well guess what? With the way the NSFOC/TG has acted through this whole mess I want to take my vote back now. Remember the NSFOC said we should have a revote for the Eola property. I think we should have a revote on the BB property. Since it was never about the BB property or any property anyway, right? LET'S TAKE A VOTE!! I'm just asking for the same thing some of the non-Eola supporters have been asking for.

I also will bet that BB won't lower their price now if Eola is off the table. Watch them try to get more then $600,000 an acre.

I want to know why Midwest Generation won’t release all the information on the site. What are they hiding? If there's nothing wrong with the soil samples there should be no reason to hold your cards so close to your vest. Release all the reports!

Maybe that's the reason for the step backwards. They didn't back out of the deal in the letter, they just want the district parents to stop questioning the site... read the last paragraph.
http://www.ipsd.org/Uploads/news_18300_1.pdf

Midwest Generation sells "Us" the property with no future liability, then we find out how much the OUR tab will be to clean it up. The site wasn't good enough in the past for the district, but it is now?

The referendum was put to the voters for the school with the location being the BB property. They changed to the location, we should have the right to revote on the referendum in November.

Kind of funny how the NSFOC is upset about the clean site for our third HS and managed to have to sellers back out.

Now that they accomplished that they better stay far away from the RR walk because last week it was found to be contaminated. Time for them to sue the City of Naperville since now they can't go there because it's not safe. Oh wait what am I thinking, they don't care about safe sites they just care about "neighbord" school boundaries.

I hope they can all sleep at night when their kids are at WV jammed in hallways and sharing lockers.

As I read some of these postings, it is obvious today's news will only exacerbate the collective 204 lunacy level demonsrated in many of these posts. Will you tax and spend people (a slight majority of district residents) blame TG & WE for this latest development or do you now aim your wrath at MidWestGen? Personally, I applaud the decision by MidWestGen! They are smart people and new a bad situation. They have no need to sell the property and given all the nonsense that has gone on over the past several years, they do not need to waste their time and assets playing a boobs game with fools. REMEMBER THIS PEOPLE: WHEN GOVERNMENT (AND ITS CONSTITUENTS) IS INEFFICIENT, INEFFECTIVE, ARROGANT, REPRESSIVE, UNFAIR ETC., BUSINESS WILL JUST WALK AWAY! They will leave a City, a County, a State and a Nation if there is no benefit and only liabilities. This school nightmare today ends like the end of a Rocky and Bullwinkle cartoon: stay tuned for next time. Is it Mateo Valley High School, the school that never was OR, just fence that sucker off and start the bulldozers by the middle of the month as a distingushed "educator" recently said?

"That opposition includes a lawsuit against the School District, lobbying of public officials, and a grass-roots effort that has disseminated incorrect, misleading, and potentially harmful information about not only the School District, but Midwest Generation as well. Consequently, it is our considered opinion that continued negotiations and the potential sale represent a threat to both the business interests and reputation of Midwest Generation."

______________________________________________

Lobbying of public officials? Their public service is done!!!

A grass-roots effort that has disseminated incorrect, misleading, and potentially harmful information about the School District and MidwestGen.

HEY WAY TO GO TG, NSFOC AND MR. COLLINS YOU ACCOMPLISHED YOUR GOAL OF THROWING ENOUGH "WHAT-IF'S" OUT THERE AND DOWN RIGHT LIES!!!

ANYONE NOT CONVINCED YET THAT THE MAJORITY OF TG AND THE NSFOC ARE SELFISH ENTITLED RESIDENTS THAT ONLY WANT THEIR WAY AT THE EXPENSE OF ALL OTHERS!!???

This will never be forgotten by the residents and parents of the IPSD, the school board present and future, the children and teachers!!! Better have a HOA meeting to change your subdivision name because no one will want to buy there!!!

A few observations...

-Quite an impact for such a tiny, small group.

-D204 saved from itself.

-"It takes a village" of top students, volunteers, leaders to stop the madness... and a "village of idiots" to not let them have their say or to not listen to WHAT they are saying.

-Every action ventually has an offsetting reaction.

-NSFOC may save D204 about $50 million - quite a bargain.

By Do what's right on April 10, 2008 2:25 PM
No matter what happens, wherever the new school might go.....though I don't think we should run back to BB.....PLEASE LET'S ALL AGREE THAT TG SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO STEP FOOT IN NV OR THE NEW SCHOOL. This has nothing to do with their frivilous lawsuit, but someone should be responsible for teaching their children that "entitlement" is wrong. As Hilary Clinton once said, "it takes a village...."

_______________________________

Wow - this guys should run for the school board. Sounds like he would fit right in!

Here's a better idea, kick TG out of D204. I'm sure D203 would love the $10M of property tax per year that subdivision produces. That alone would fund a new school! Send WE out with 'em and your really talkiing!!

By Anonymous on April 10, 2008 3:08 PM said ...
"Your neighbors have sealed your fate of being assigned to WVHS when the 3rd high school is a distant dream.".....

Sorry but that is inaccurate. If that happens, then it will be seen as retaliation by the School Board, plain and simple. That will open up a whole another can of worms and legal challenges.

The best solution at this point is for the SB to take a rational re-examination and either go with the 2006 proposal for BB and the associated boundaries or to leave things as they currently are, but augment the capacities of both WVHS and NVHS without touching assignments.

Its time to move beyond rancor and recriminations to actually address the issue in a non-partisan way.

Sorry but if for any reason a 3rd HS doesn't get built I don't want TG coming to WVHS. Sad to say...I think the HS will get worse with their kind. We really don't need selfish entitled kids at WVHS. If ther parents who formed the NSFOC act the way they do I can only imagine how their kids act from the lessons they have been teaching them.

To: Sue on April 10, 2008 3:44 PM

Maybe that's the reason for the step backwards. They didn't back out of the deal in the letter, they just want the district parents to stop questioning the site... read the last paragraph.

Midwest Generation sells "Us" the property with no future liability, then we find out how much the OUR tab will be to clean it up. The site wasn't good enough in the past for the district, but it is now?

The referendum was put to the voters for the school with the location being the BB property. They changed to the location, we should have the right to revote on the referendum in November.
____________________________________

Read the article is says the grass-root effort (aka the NSFOC) has been lying about their property and the school district as MidwestGen sees it.

NEWS FLASH SUZIE!!! THE REFERENDUM WAS NOT PUT TO THE VOTERS FOR THE SCHOOL BEING ON THE BB PROPERTY. GO BACK AND LOOK AT THE REFERENDUM. IF WE ARE FORCED TO PURCHASE THE BB PROPERTY I SAY WE THEN TAKE IT TO THE DISTRICT AND SEE IF RESIDENT OF IPSD DO IN FACT WANT THE 3RD HS ON THE BB PROPERTY. I BET IT WILL FAIL NOW AND BECAUSE OF THE NSFOC!!!

THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE :)

For the past few months, the school district has pursued the purchase of 49 acres of land from St. John AME Church and 37 acres from Midwest Generation for the construction of Metea Valley High School. Midwest Generation announced today that it is no longer willing to sell the district its 37 acres. A copy of the letter the district received from Midwest Generation stating such may be viewed at http://www.ipsd.org/Uploads/news_18300_1.pdf

Our two high schools are overcrowded today with 8,200 students. As our existing middle school students move up through the grades, we will have an additional 1,000 high school students by 2011. Several of our middle schools are also facing overcrowding which needs to be alleviated with the opening of our seventh middle school.

We are currently investigating fiscally responsible land options that will move construction forward to ease the overcrowding. I will continue to bring you updates as we have more information.

Stephen Daeschner
Superintendent

It looks like the Eola site is off the table for now. I seriously doubt that there will be any new school in 2009 and maybe not in time for 2010 either. With BB sitting empty, the BB owners must still be looking for commercial buyers - and they are out there waiting for the economy to strengthen again. When it does, the BB site will be great for a mixed used development of commercial,retail, residential and maybe even a limited service hotel operation.

If the BB location goes away, the only other solution that might work is to give the 204 South folks what they want - a school in their neighborhood. I'd suggest that the SB begin condemnation hearings to take the land of approx 300 homes in the TG subdivision - that would yield - plenty of land for a new school. It should be environmentally acceptable as we know that the home ground of NSFOC would never be contaminated. That should resolve the environmental issue - who could complain about the land they live on being unacceptable for their children. Locating the school on TG land should also bring the remaining residents some happiness as they will all be able to have their kids walk to school.

WOW!!! People just seem to get more vicious as things unfold! Some of these comments are crazy - "lets all agree that certain neighborhoods should be banned from certain schools?" Who do you people think you are to sit and judge? The problem in district 204 has nothing to do with residents having opinions and doing what they feel is best for their children, its people that make comments filled with hatred that incite the bigotry proven again and again in these blogs!

TO: Another Concerned Parent at 204 District on April 10, 2008 2:53 PM

" Face the real problem and name every high school in the district "Neuqua" so we can move on with our lives."
_________________________________________

Sorry but some of us LOVE WVHS, always have and always will. They can keep the Nequa name!! Although I'd watch out for the NSFOC they might sue the IPSD to have MVHS changed to NVHS if they build the HS on the BB property.

The moment has arrived to come together as a district. No matter what side you take it is now time to have all winners and no losers. I can only hope that with the most current developments we will see a turnout at the next board meeting that will have to be housed at one of the high school gyms. I have heard from many bright and highly intelligent people at past meetings your attendance would be greatly appreciated.
May I suggest that now is the time to thank our board and adm. for the hard work invested into both eola and bb sites. I expect much work will need to be done in the near future, volunteer if you can.

to:By Retaliation is illegal on April 10, 2008 4:02 PM
Please take a long look at the MM emails reprinted above. 2 years ago, the district had said that TG would end up at WVHS to ease crowding at NVHS. That is not retaliation. That is demographics. You defeated the new school with misleading propaganda and because of the overcrowding coming to NVHS they will have to move the subdivisions closest to WVHS to WVHS. That means TG and WE. But after all this WVHS doesn't want you.

By Are you proud of yourselves? on April 10, 2008 3:15 PM
To NSFOC or whatever you are calling yourselves,
Are you happy with the outcome of your whining and complaining? Are you content that Midwest GEn has dropped the land agreement due to your malicious attacks on their professional reputation?

Will you be content when your high school is the size of a small city? When classrooms will routinely have 35 kids? When your precious child isn't able to participate in extracirricular activities? When your child gets the opportunity to participate in split sessions? Individual attention- gone. Quality teachers- gone. Quality special programs- gone.

But that's right, your group is educated in environmental law and school efficiency. Your group was formed, what 2 whole months ago? Golly what experience you have. Our elected officials have been working on this for 4 years. But that's right, you know best.

Ask your student in 3-4 years how they like school. Remember this is for them. Thanks, thanks, a lot.

Good for you. By golly, your group (200+) has spoken for 25,000 students.
..................................................................

Wow, really! Whinners and complainers? Who's whinning and complaining other than all those SB supporters who just sank like a rock wishing they took the life vest. Oh, wait, you could see all the signs GOD put out there to take the vest but the SB told you no need they would provide a support for you to keep swimming. Blub, Blub.

NSFOC can't take credit for single handedly convincing a major corporation not to sell. You give them way to much credit. Although they are darn good people and if they put thier minds to accomplish something I would trust they are more capable of handling the task than the SB. Again, I go back to what a wounderful SB we have that brings our community together in harmony to teach us how to manage relationships. Just yesterday Metzger called Collins a nincompoop. Who's the nincompoop now. Boy how silly these small men are that have to through out cheap shots. These are the kind of guys that would get a swirly in HS after this kind of Humiliation. Laughable. Big talk from such an incompetent bunch.

I would like to see these malicious attacks on Midwest Gen. They poluted, reported it, tried to sell the land, had further tests, and did not want all the attention. Nothing wrong with that. Bad PR is bad. The SB chosing such a rediculas sight brought this to light. Thank GOD for the NSFOC for asking a few questions. If the SB would have answered just a few maybe they would have stopped.

You talk about fear mongering from the NSFOC! You just recited the pledge of our own SB when they were threating everybody. We have plenty of solutions to our future challenges that are workable. If the SB wants to be whinny brats because they don't know how to play nice in the sandbox, maybe they shouldn't be in their positions. Retire early and save face. That is more thier style. But don't forget to make potshots at certain parts of the community on your way out. That always settles people down.

By the way, the SB working on this for 4 years in shameful in itself. My 7 year old could probably make more progress than that and would not have upset nearly every viable land owner and two major Subdivision and thier supporters. Good People you got there.

SUE NSOFC!!! THE LETTER ITSSELF SAYS THEIR LIES ARE WHY THE COMPANY WONT SELL!

To: WHAT? It can get worse? on April 10, 2008 4:18 PM

"The problem in district 204 has nothing to do with residents having opinions and doing what they feel is best for their children, its people that make comments filled with hatred that incite the bigotry proven again and again in these blogs!"

__________________________

You were correct the first time. The problem with this district has become (thanks NSFOC) that certain people are doing what they feel is best for their children!!! It has led to people making comments against those that have become selfish and entitled.

I think it is time to vote on whether we need a new site. The refendum should make it very clear that the referendum will give TG a high school where ever they want it to be. Let's see that pass.

By Anonymous on April 10, 2008 4:20 PM said...
"Please take a long look at the MM emails reprinted above. 2 years ago, the district had said that TG would end up at WVHS to ease crowding at NVHS. "

MM has said a lot of things and then said the exact opposite. His words don't hold much significance and are not law.

Mark my words - if there is retaliation against any group by this School Board then we as a District are looking at serious legal implications.

It is time to step away from that approach. Its time to do the rational thing now. Either go with BB and the boundaries the school board sold us in 2006 or keep the current assignments and increase capacity in both schools.

I'm primarily saying this, so cooler heads can prevail and take a rational approach as opposed to a vindictive approach that will lead to even more recriminations and unpleasantness.

If we're to come together as a district then we need to stop this ugliness!

The entire hoopla of the Eola site versus the BB site has gotten beyond the pale. Why not start a new blog that debates the need for a new 3rd school at all. Start an additional blog on who should be on the new school board.

Response from Naperville Sun editors:

We've entertained discussion about that topic on various District 204 threads over the past year, and come to the conclusion that voters decided a third high school was necessary when they approved the referendum.

Midwest Generation Won't sell its land!

April 10, 2008

By Tim Waldorf twaldorf@scn1.com

Midwest Generation has decided not to sell a 37-acre portion of the property Indian Prairie School District has selected as the site of Metea Valley High School.

Midwest Generation spokesman Charley Parnell confirmed Wednesday afternoon that the company is no longer interested in selling the land.

Whatever happens with the 3rd high school - I think we all know one thing for sure. The boundaries will include TG and WE at Waubonsie. This is very unfortunate for us as we've always embraced Waubonsie but now we'll have to deal with TG and WE. The only satisfying thing about this is that this is exactly what they were truly fighting against. Todd Andrews your name will be remembered well as well as several others - you did your children no favors here.

I thank all of you who spear headed the Save our students from contamination. I hope your Children enjoy taking classes in portable trailers that has to be better than WVHS.

"That opposition includes a lawsuit against the School District, lobbying of public officials, and a grass-roots effort that has disseminated incorrect, misleading, and potentially harmful information about not only the School District, but Midwest Generation as well. Consequently, it is our considered opinion that continued negotiations and the potential sale represent a threat to both the business interests and reputation of Midwest Generation."
________________________________________________________

Is Midwest Gen setting up to sue NSFOC over the busted land sale? Hey, the BB folks are suing over the very same issue. This certainly would not be precedent-setting. Actually, it would be rather comical.

To Midwest Gen: Please let me know where I can send my $204 in support of your lawsuit.

CAN WE CALL A SPADE A SPADE ALREADY? WHAT AN ABSOLUTE EMBARRASSMENT NSFOC IS TO OUR COMMUNITY...THE STUDENTS, THE TEACHERS, EVERYONE WHO HEARS ABOUT THIS SEES IT FOR WHAT IT IS... IT ISNT ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES--HELLO LOOK AT THE POWER LINES IN TALL GRASS... THESE PEOPLE DONT THINK WAUBONSIE IS GOOD ENOUGH. IT COULDNT BE MORE OBVIOUS NO MATTER HOW MUCH THEY WANT TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE LEGAL SYSTEM. I FOR ONE WOULD MUCH RATHER MY CHILDREN GO TO SCHOOL WITH A DIVERSE POPULATION IN AN OLDER BUILDING THAN SET FOOT ANYWHERE WITH THE PRODUCTS OF THESE CLOSE MINDED DRAINS ON SOCIETY. YOU THINK YOU GOT LIED TO??? YOU ARE LYING TO EVERYONE BY SAYING THIS HAS ANYTHING TO DO WITH ANYTHING OTHER THAN THE FACT THAT YOU DONT THINK WAUBONSIE IS GOOD ENOUGH FOR YOU. SOMEONE OBVIOUSLY LIED TO YOU WHEN THEY TOLD YOU YOU WERE MORE THAN A WASTE OF SPACE TOO, THATS THE LIE YOU SHOULD TAKE A CLOSE LOOK AT. HERES AN IDEA---SINCE YOU CLEARLY HAVE AN OVERABUNDANCE OF TIME ON YOUR HANDS--HOME SCHOOL YOUR KIDS!!! IF YOUR KIDS ARE ANYTHING LIKE YOU WE DONT WANT THEM IN OUR SOCIETY, MUCH LESS OUR SCHOOLS. SHAME ON YOU FOR BEING A HORRIBLE EXAMPLE TO OUR YOUTH ABOUT HOW THE WORLD WORKS.

So now after the kicking, screaming, flooding Midwest Gen and lawmakers with calls, publishing ads with false information and perpetuating myths on the blogs, the NSFOC types want to stop the ugliness? Sort of like when my 3 year old throws a fit and someone eventually gives her what she wants and she quiets down.
This is all so disgusting.
If the land was deemed unsafe by qualified individuals, I would fight to keep my kids away from it as well. However, all indications were that the land is safe.
Folks, this isn't the movies. There was not a conspiracy to endanger the kids and leave us liable to lawsuits due to illness.
We all know what it was about. And it turns my stomach.

Does anyone think that the District will ever recover from this? What will be the next special interest group to form to bring legal action against the school board because they don't like something?

I really don't care where you build the new school. I don't have any kids that will go there. Put it anywhere you like. Send the children to Plainfield or Bolingbrook for all I care. At this point, I think that no matter what happens, someone is going to sue - because they didn't get what they want.

A question to NSFOC: Will you drop the suit if the SB buys land at a different (read clean and safe) location?

A question to Mr. Collins: Is your firm available to represent those who might want to institute an action against the SB for failing to provide proper school facilities and prevent over crowding in the current schools? Due to the SB's inability to put a new school into operation in a timely manner, it might be said that hundreds of students, possibly thousands, will have been damaged by getting a lower quality education.

Will some of the parents of the 8,000-10,000 high school students want ti institute a class action lawsuit against the District?

It only takes 9.

To By Amazed and Astounded who wrote on April 10, 2008 4:17 PM
I'd suggest that the SB begin condemnation hearings to take the land of approx 300 homes in the TG subdivision - that would yield - plenty of land for a new school.

-----

That would fit the D204 MO - condemn about $180 million in revenue producing property, that would have a final value of ...let's see maybe $150 million??, then build a school for $150 million...so that's $300 million. Then pay BB $20 mil on suit #1 and say $10 mil on suit #2...so that's $330 million. Oh, yes then there is the bus transportation where they would move people probably from Stonebridge to the new location past WV for another $20m hit, then there would be the lawsuits costs. SO $350 million for that great idea, and $5 million lost revenue per year. Yeah that sounds feasible for our SB.

"If the BB location goes away, the only other solution that might work is to give the 204 South folks what they want - a school in their neighborhood. I'd suggest that the SB begin condemnation hearings to take the land of approx 300 homes in the TG subdivision - that would yield - plenty of land for a new school. It should be environmentally acceptable as we know that the home ground of NSFOC would never be contaminated. That should resolve the environmental issue - who could complain about the land they live on being unacceptable for their children. Locating the school on TG land should also bring the remaining residents some happiness as they will all be able to have their kids walk to school."

Seems like a great idea to me--how long do condemnation hearings take?

If we have to go to split shifts, the last thing the board will want to do is make extra kids cross 59 or have 1 hour bus rides to school. No third school will mean all of our house values will go down and WE and/or TG will end up at WVHS. My condolences to WVHS, but honestly we don't want them either!

Midwest Gen pulling out in this real estate market can only mean skeletons in the closet (too much legal risk going forward). When the lights go on, the cockroaches scatter--thanks for shining the light, NSFOC! Am I the only one wondering why the due diligence was left to concerned citizens...?

By TG stay where you are on April 10, 2008 4:02 PM
Sorry but if for any reason a 3rd HS doesn't get built I don't want TG coming to WVHS. Sad to say...I think the HS will get worse with their kind. We really don't need selfish entitled kids at WVHS. If ther parents who formed the NSFOC act the way they do I can only imagine how their kids act from the lessons they have been teaching them.
...................................................................

You are truely a peace of work. To lable a whole subdivsion because you didn't get your way. It's that what you said about TG. Who's entitled now. You are so special.

By Anonymous on April 10, 2008 4:43 PM
I thank all of you who spear headed the Save our students from contamination. I hope your Children enjoy taking classes in portable trailers that has to be better than WVHS.

But won't those trailers be at WVHS?

Dear Naperville Residents

I guess buying a house near a great school and believing that your children will attend is a crime according to some of you - If it's a big house then it's a felony!!

By WHITELIESTALLTALES on April 10, 2008 4:33 PM
SUE NSOFC!!! THE LETTER ITSSELF SAYS THEIR LIES ARE WHY THE COMPANY WONT SELL!
====

The letter itself is mis-information to cover off an exposure. It is also pretty bold of MW Gen to speak for D204 as well. How do they know what about the district they do not belong to? They better just slip away or they are asking for more trouble. The CEO of Edison International should be hearing about this. MW Gen should try to remember that the Nukes, the Green image and guaranteed demand opportunities far outweigh the little deal and the little backhand exit. That may cost them a billion.

Maybe we should get the surplus trailers from FEMA--you know, the ones that were found to have high levels of asbestos? Bet we could get them really CHEAP! That would save us a boatload in tax dollars.

By Amazed and Astounded on April 10, 2008 4:17 PM
It looks like the Eola site is off the table for now. I seriously doubt that there will be any new school in 2009 and maybe not in time for 2010 either. With BB sitting empty, the BB owners must still be looking for commercial buyers - and they are out there waiting for the economy to strengthen again. When it does, the BB site will be great for a mixed used development of commercial,retail, residential and maybe even a limited service hotel operation.

If the BB location goes away, the only other solution that might work is to give the 204 South folks what they want - a school in their neighborhood. I'd suggest that the SB begin condemnation hearings to take the land of approx 300 homes in the TG subdivision - that would yield - plenty of land for a new school. It should be environmentally acceptable as we know that the home ground of NSFOC would never be contaminated. That should resolve the environmental issue - who could complain about the land they live on being unacceptable for their children. Locating the school on TG land should also bring the remaining residents some happiness as they will all be able to have their kids walk to school.
..................................................................

Don't be Amazed and Astounded! It is trying to take land from someone that got us in this mess to begin with. You're the kind of fool who should be on the SB next to make that happen. Keep thinking of stupid ways to waste tax payer dollars. Dumb. BTW there is still property off 248. Oh, wait we still need to pay for the BB lawsuits so that would not work either. Any other bright ideas, genius!

Re, "Todd Andrews your name will be remembered well as well as several others - you did your children no favors here."

Have we stooped so low that we are willing to threaten people's innocent children??!!! This is alarming! Not sure why The Sun approved that post (above). Seems like you should forward to the Naperville police?!!

To G. Forrest--

Looks like you could get your new vote after all:

However, McCluskey concluded his letter by saying Midwest Generation “would be willing to reopen our discussions should the School District community come to a consensus in support of using our site for a new facility.”

By WHITELIESTALLTALES on April 10, 2008 4:33 PM
SUE NSOFC!!! THE LETTER ITSSELF SAYS THEIR LIES ARE WHY THE COMPANY WONT SELL!

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
patience, patience.

AS a NSFOC supporter explained about listing the 9 owners as plantiffs. You have to have people who have suffered damage.

Just show some patience. The school will still be built at Eola & Molitor. Read the entire letter.

Wow thanks for nothing, Midwest Gen. Literally! What a waste! If a small group of angry citizens can sway an organization of their size, then I really have to wonder about this company. I wonder what kind of backlash they can expect from the larger, now more angry, group that really did support this site and now has to face even more overcrowding for our children in their schools, with no option in sight. Really wish you had a spine, Midwest Gen. Just terrible!

By the looks of the blogs - it is obvious that the vast majority of residents is against the NSFOC and their tactics. I am writing this blog to everyone out there who believes our schools are overcrowded and we need a 3rd High School. We are all aware that Eola is not a nuclear site and is safe as any in the district. In the last paragraph of the letter from Midwest Gen, he notes that they would be willing to sell if the community comes together. If you weren't vocal before about your disgust with the NSFOC, get vocal and active now and we can still have a third high school in time. Please send a note to the moderator and maybe we could make arrangements with Jim Lynch to allow your email to be released - first send a blog saying Count me in....and we'll from there...

RE:

"Just show some patience. The school will still be built at Eola & Molitor. Read the entire letter."

Per the letter, re-opening the land sale discussions includes one small contingency:

"should the School District community come to a consensus in support of using our site for a new facility.”

From the looks of this blog, waiting for "community consensus" will take quite some patience--about like waiting for h-ll to freeze over. Put a fork in Eola & Molitor, she's done.

Supporters.... don't rest on your laurels, this is a small but significant victory. Think about what the SB has put taxpayers of 204 thru to date in addition to the pending & justified claims from BB estate. Remember it is our money that the SB is wasting!

This is the tip of the iceberg, we need a new Suptd who respects our taxpayers, teachers, parents concerns and most importantly our children. We needs accurate data on real population; 2005 estimates are off by at least 1500 students (more in light of the housing market & recession).

Wonder why we now have room for All Day Kindergarten now? My local elementary school is downsizing first and second grade classrooms by 2 each... what is your school doing?

Game over SB... we will continue to dig for the truth. Dr. D.. you need to subscribe to the Sun..then you will have the Facts now the propaganda MM feeds you!

Daily Herald...Third HS Defeated - Entire District Loses
Naperville Sun...HA HA NSFOC Wins! District Who Cares?

A great deal of the today's results here are a result of the amount of press the Naperville Sun gave this issue. Shawn Collins played the editors like his personal house boys. The Daily Herald has a greater subscription based in the district than the Naperville Sun but he never used the Daily Herald to trumpet his cause. Of course the NSFOC could not afford a full page ad in the Daily Herald. I understand that keeping the controversy helps sells papers but you never once explored the real questions of who is the NSFOC? How many owners? You said numerous times they have XXX number of members but never explored whether or not they technically have members. I cannot deny they have supporters (not the 3000 or 4000 they claim) and donors but what is a member? What is required of membership? You gave them a platform to spew their "incorrect, misleading, and potentially harmful information" (quoted from the Midwest Gen letter taken from your website)but you never once looked into who was using the Naperville Sun to spread this. Let's see some facts. Ask the paper's legal advisor (if you don't have one, your parent paper does) the legal ramifications of the amended lawsuit (that your paper never reported anything about).

I know you will either not post this or give the canned "we report the news objectively" but as a newspaper, don't you feel any responsibility to inform the public as opposed to just relaying "incorrect, misleading, and potentially harmful information"?

The people of this district that have a vested interest (our children) would like to know some facts. Check out the last paragraph of the Midwest Gen letter. It talks of a consensus and I think the people need to know whom we are supposed to have a consensus.

To: By Anonymous on April 10, 2008 5:09 PM This is not a threat to anyones children - you are as dramatic as your law suit - and You're the one reading that into it. This is simply saying, he did his children no favor here - as they won't be getting what they sued for and that is to not to have to go to WVHS - which by the way - we are full supporters of WVHS before you try and twist that as well.

To all pro-board bloggers,

It is amazing to me the hate and venom that many of you have. Most of you talk about peace, love, getting along, coming together as a district, teaching our kids to get along. When a decision turns against you, it switches to destroy NFOC, ban kids from a school, who wants those bratty kids, burn, burn, burn.

Whoever posted the comment about "forcing' TG kids to go to WVHS? You must have issues by even suggesting that WVHS is a punishment? Now that is support for a school? Someone who cares about making things better for all our kids. Shame on you.

In the end, the MidGen decision was probably going to happen. These crack pot comments about 200 people stopping this is so off the mark. It does not take Dr D's PHD to look at something and no it's wrong. Many, many, many people were not comfortable with how this board was acting. Eventaully, when people do things wrong, or in the wrong way, it will catch up. The crazy decision to move to this the Eola site, the crazy speed of decisions and actions, ignoring logic over the false need to hurry things up. There was a great wrong that was occuring and for now it has been stopped.

It's time to pick up the pieces of the puzzle and start again. Find a logical safe site for a new school and take the time to do it right by getting TRUE community concensus. Do it right, honest, and by the book and everything will work out. It will likely need to start with a new board, board president, and super. That will have to happen in 2009.

When the voters approved the referendum, when did the district actually get the money? If they got the $120 or so million back in 2006, what have they been doing with it? Think for a minute, if they had invested it and only received a 5% return on the $120MM/yr that's $12MM for two years - almost enought to pay for the increase in the BB land... seems like we could have avoided a lot of this mess.

Anonymous on April 10, 2008 4:43 PM

I grew up taking classes in a portable classroom and was perfectly fine with it. Besides, I would rather have my kids take classes in a portable then on a contaminated site.

Those who felt they were entitled to Eola should thank their lucky stars for what happened today. I hope Dr. D and Mark Metzger can finally come to terms with the fact that this site should have never been considered.

Also, what is up with this....."Superintendent Stephen Daeschner denied the validity of rumors of this sort that were floating around the blogosphere Thursday morning, saying, “We have not received any formal notification.”

Then later he comes out and says otherwise? Hmmm........maybe the School Board administration doesn't all agree on what they are doing. Vicker's pretty much confirmed that in the Hearald today. I wonder if someone in their organization is leaking info to the blogs over there?

Where did the money go? on April 10, 2008 5:51 PM

I just have to say I liked your post. I never thought of that.

Re:

"Do it right, honest, and by the book and everything will work out. It will likely need to start with a new board, board president, and super. That will have to happen in 2009."

Lots of heat on this blog, finally a bit of light. Clearly "new board, board president, and super" ARE required to move forward as a community. Let's move on. A new high school is a longterm consideration that will affect the region for decades to come, and it deserves proper consideration, consensus, planning, and execution (things the current regime has proven itself incapable of).

to:By Where did the money go? on April 10, 2008 5:51 PM
When the voters approved the referendum, when did the district actually get the money? If they got the $120 or so million back in 2006, what have they been doing with it? Think for a minute, if they had invested it and only received a 5% return on the $120MM/yr that's $12MM for two years - almost enought to pay for the increase in the BB land... seems like we could have avoided a lot of this mess.

>>>>>>>>>>
I am amused by everyone in the south saying we should buy it at any price. If TG wants the school at BB at any price, why not have a special assessment at TG to pay the extra $17,000,000 that site will cost the tax payers. That is $17,000 per household at Tall Grass. (83.3 payments of $204).

You fail to calculate that the district actually has to pay interest to bond holders for that period.

Any extra money the district has in the bank today will be needed tomorrow - lawsuits aside, the tax base is going to get smaller with the shrinkage of property values (further exasberated by the bad PR the NSFOC, Naperville Sun, and lack of 3rd HS are giving district 204).

Only one thing concerns me about buying more land from AME....
https://www.nsfoc.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=82&Itemid=79

I'll bet the school still builds on the Eola site - without the 35 acres from MWG and it will be without all the bells and whistles that the other schools have.

When, and if, MWG decides to sell the 35 acres I'd bet the SD has a right of first refusal - to build the remaining features that the other schools have.

That's just me looking in my crystal ball.

By Disgust with the NSFOC on April 10, 2008 5:31 PM
By the looks of the blogs - it is obvious that the vast majority of residents is against the NSFOC and their tactics. I am writing this blog to everyone out there who believes our schools are overcrowded and we need a 3rd High School. We are all aware that Eola is not a nuclear site and is safe as any in the district. In the last paragraph of the letter from Midwest Gen, he notes that they would be willing to sell if the community comes together. If you weren't vocal before about your disgust with the NSFOC, get vocal and active now and we can still have a third high school in time. Please send a note to the moderator and maybe we could make arrangements with Jim Lynch to allow your email to be released - first send a blog saying Count me in....and we'll from there...
....................................................................
As long as you keep blaming others for your SB mistakes, you will continue to be disappointed. The SB is why the entire pro NSFOC and anti-NSFOC is all upset. BLAME, BLAME, BLAME. Never a good position to be in. Not a position of strength is it!!!!

Count me in

NSFOC Where is the call for fiscal responsibility now. BB is way overpriced but you still want that land. I guess it proves yet again that this was about nothing other than going to WV. What also happened for the call to vote no for the next referendum to fund the school? I guess all of us up in the North can vote no far that since you will be as well. I’m tired of paying for schools that my kids will never get to use.

By Anonymous on April 10, 2008 5:38 PM
Sorry, you comment clearly sounded like a threat to me “he did his children no favor here” sounded like they’ll have to pay for it in someway when they go to WVHS.

To: By disgust with the NSFOC: Count me in...

By Anonymous on April 10, 2008 5:38 PM
Sorry, you comment clearly sounded like a threat to me “he did his children no favor here” sounded like they’ll have to pay for it in someway when they go to WVHS. These are just kids, what's wrong with you.

Happy to see the result. I want to be clear that either Eola site property - whether MW Gen or AME is unacceptable for the following reasons:

1. Does not meet the State of Illinois Build Safe program
2. High volume, high pressure gas pipelines over 7 foot in diameter for juest the 3 lines running in middle of property.
3. Adjacent power lines
4. RR tracks where train traffic will increase 3 to 4 fold
5. BB damages that could run $15M to 30m before the 3rd suit coming
6. NSFOC rumored to be ready to sue for $60 M in damges coupled with strong rumor of grassroots citizen referendum to break away NVHS from district 204 (if so, this is all over, no matter where the new HS gets built - thank you SB for this)
7. $30+ million in Excess bus transportation costs for ill-conceived transport plan. No one talks about but the number may even be higher. The NSFOC was low on their estimates (NPV probably is the cause).

Finally, Dr. D nor MW Gen provided any specifics about misleading information. Nothing has been proven against NSFOC accept that SD204 supporters can name-call. Whereas, NSFOC has a many lies substantiated with D204's own information.

I am disgusted with how we treated concerned citizens.

Everyone should be grateful that we are not being allowed to purchase a contaminated site no matter where it is located.

I am sure that Brach Brodie trust is already counting the money that they are sure will now be coming their way. Who boxed us in? Who tips our hand? The last several years have been one bad decision after another.

Step back and stop!

It appears that we don't have professionals in charge.

Does anyone really believe that a company the size of Midwest Gen declined to sell because of a group like NSFOC? I certainly hope the people that do believe that are never entrusted with any public concern or private for that matter. Midwest Gen assumed in January that the SB had a reasonable understanding of what they were doing. Given the SB rejected the site two years ago due to enviromental concerns Midwest Gen had to believe the SB was more than confident they could pull this deal together or they never would have approached them again. Little did Midwest Gen understand they were dealing with a group of people that totally botched the BB deal (it's called an option with a set price) had there backs against the wall and needed to buy land cheap enough to cover the cost of a potential lawsuit from BB and do it in a hurry so they could meet some arbitrary deadline.

I have had enough of this SB and the infamous DR. D I doubt our SB even chatted with anyone in Louisville about his rep there

https://www.nsfoc.org/pdf/dist_204_enviro.pdf

disgust with NSFOC - count me in

KR, go find your meds. That was not a threat against children. What happened today will hurt all the children of the district. If yours is going to have to go to WVHS because of overcrowding, your children will pay the price for a lack of a third high school. The only bullies here are the ones that bullied Midwest Gen.

I know I will not vote for another referendum to support a third high school. I voted two years ago to build a new high school and a few entitled individuals took it upon themselves to deny the whole district what a majority of voters decided was necessary. I will also not vote to provide additional funds in order to purchase the BB land. Either they build a smaller, less complete school somewhere or they build no school. My kids will all be out of the system by then anyway. WE and TG will end up at WVHS anyway, despite their best efforts to make everyone suffer overcrowding so that they could have their way.

School board member Vickers doesn’t see a need for a 3rd HS. If she’s on the board and don’t see a need for this 3rd HS perhaps these enrollment numbers should be looked at again. The money the SB collected thus for could be used to pay for BB damages, extend the current High Schools, add air-conditioning to WVHS and put more resource into the under-performing elementary schools, I believe that this district should not have any under-performing schools.

To: Earth To SB

I guess you didn't understand the sarcasm in my post about taking 300 homes in Tallgrass for a new school site. What a ludicrous idea! I never imagined anyone would take that idea as anything but a joke.

You may not agree with me, you may not like what I said and you obviously missed the point, but thats OK. I'm not calling you a fool.

The district already owns 25 acres of land adjacent to BB location, perhaps the BB trust would consider donating the $17 million dollars difference the school board district. (Who appraised this land for the SB, how could the appraiser be so off) In return the school would be named Brach-Brodie High. Lets assume that the BB trust is in a 40% tax bracket $17,000,000 X40% = $6,800,000 tax write off. $17,000,000 - 6,800,000 = 10,200,000 BB actual donation to the school district.

Disgust with the NSFOC,

Please count me in, as well as all my 800 neighbors as well. I can't believe Midwest Gen would listen to this group.

Disgust with NSFOC,

Count me in!

I'm glad to see that MWGen came to their senses and pulled out. Why in the world would a company that size want to mess with a small land sale? The future litigation they would potentially have to deal with would be way more expensive than the $5M land sale. MidwestGen received good advice - and pulled out. It simply wasn't worth the risk to move ahead. Sorry that many of you aren't happy with the decision but I think it was the right thing for the SD. Again, why take ANY chances with safety of kids?

COUNT ME IN, Disgust with NSFOC.

By anonymous on April 10, 2008 7:04 PM
I know I will not vote for another referendum to support a third high school. I voted two years ago to build a new high school and a few entitled individuals took it upon themselves to deny the whole district what a majority of voters decided was necessary. I will also not vote to provide additional funds in order to purchase the BB land. Either they build a smaller, less complete school somewhere or they build no school. My kids will all be out of the system by then anyway. WE and TG will end up at WVHS anyway, despite their best efforts to make everyone suffer overcrowding so that they could have their way.
..................................................................
Winners win and losers BLAME. Keep up the support for the SB. News Flash: The SB already has enough money for BB and said so themselves. Why the issue over money with BB? You were fine with writting a blank check to remediate land that was "SAFE". You idiot, you don't remediate safe land do you? Some of you missed a day or two of church when GOD passed out common sense. Your message to us that your kids are going to be out of the system by the time the problem hits so you don't care about the district as a whole is pathetic. The BB deal got botched, Midwest Gen deal got botched because the SB makes such a great impression on everyone they talk with. Look at you so angry everyday. You are so dramatic. If a school doesn't get built the only one to blame is yourself for just talking. Sometimes you actually need to act.

But don't worry your kids will already be out of school. I am sure your no vote will not have enough pull anyway. This is not a TG and WE overcrowding issue it hits all of us. I am sure there is a solution. Maybe the SB will actually listen to others without all the BS comments and something can get done. Big Mouth usually equals small mind. Take your no vote and go home like the rest of TG and WE haters. Just pathetic.

NSFOC rumored to be ready to sue for $60 M in damages coupled with strong rumor of grassroots citizen referendum to break away NVHS from district 204 (if so, this is all over, no matter where the new HS gets built - thank you SB for this)

$60m in damages, how were tehy damaged?

So please explain to me how they would vote to take away a HS?

More NSFOC garbage.

To Peter V:
C. Vickers has been against the 3rd HS from the very beginning. In fact, I think one of the items on her election platform was being against it. She has stated on this forum she has set aside her personal beliefs and has "gone forward" based on the referendum passing.

Two, the monies generated from the referendum can only be used to build a high school, that is law. So no, we can use it for other improvements or schools.

To the NSFOC: Enjoy your last few years at your preferred HS. If there isn't a 3rd HS built, there will be extensive boundary changes. I hope you like the colors green and gold.

save earth - yurrr funny.

The NSFOC is going to sue for $60 million in damages? For what damages? Under what case law?

And to your claim of what misleading?. You know what's coming. And the rest of us are going to enjoy watching this play out.

Regarding ".....your name will be remembered well as well as several others - you did your children no favors here." and "I don't want TG coming to WVHS. Sad to say...I think the HS will get worse with their kind. We really don't need selfish entitled kids at WVHS"
=================================================================
"Their kind"???

HOW DARE YOU THREATEN INNOCENT CHILDREN!
HOW DARE ALL OF YOU WHO ARE BAD MOUTHING CHILDREN OF A GIVEN SUB DIVISION!

I AM SURE I SPEAK FOR MANY WHEN I SAY HOW VERY DISGUSTED I AM BY THE WORDS AND THREATS YOU ARE SPEWING.

THIS UGLINESS IS MAKING NAPERVILLE THE MOST KID UNFRIENDLY PLACE TO LIVE.

Is this what it has come to? We are in a sad state of affairs when children are threatened because adults don't get their way. It is not the children of a subdivision or the NSFOC (and the supporters are from ALL OVER THE DISTRICT) that are to be condemned.

IT IS YOU.

TO ALL OF YOU WHO JOIN THE TG/WE/NSFOC bashing band wagon:
YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF YOURSELVES FOR BRINGING CHILDREN INTO THIS. I cannot express how very low you are.

This is getting out of hand. The hate these bloggers are showing is beyond comprehension. There are many many more people that are against the EOLA site that are afraid to speak up because of this ugliness. Are we to now worry that our kids will be threatened because of a perception that is being disseminated by some TRULY MEAN SPRIRITED PEOPLE on this site? THIS IS A DEMOCRACY. Everyone has a right to fight for what they believe in and we should be grateful that we live in a society where we are allowed to fight for a cause. Threatening children is what dictatorships do to squash people's rights.

Hi D&S

WOW
What a turn of events.

Its interesting that the "pro Eola" folks are now clammoring for a "show of unity" to prove to Midwestgen that the district majority is behind the proposed purchase. Might I suggest that a confirmation vote on the site change from BB to Eola would be the proof you are looking for?

I see that there is a petition already started on this blog (release email addresses) for this "unity statement"

I sent an email to the NSFOCfraud group about a month ago in an attempt to reach out to see if they would be willing to partner with me in asking the board to put the eola site up for a confirmation vote (imagine an NSFOC supporter and a Nsfocfraud supporter asking for the same thing. I got a very polite and well crafted email back, but the answer was no. They felt the vote had already taken place and there was no need to vote on Eola site location. I have the email reply saved in my archive.

Given our situation; I suggest the following (this is only my opinion and full disclosure; I feel the 2nd ref was linked to the BB land due to the marketing and SB funded flyers etc so their may be other options if you feel differently about this point)

1. go back to BB and negotiate a final "altered deal" for the land with the agreement that BOTH trust lawsuits be dropped. No confirmation vote needed as this site was the 2nd referendum based on the SB funded marketing.

2. If BB still too expensive; then walk away; BUT we should wait to find out what our final exposure to the best of our ability is BEFORE we move on a new site.

3. Find a new location (still need to find out the final BB suit costs before purchase). Then treat it exactly as the BB site was treated, vote on the site/boundries: Does anyone have a link to the 12 other sites in the site report? if so, could you please post a link?

4. If we still want to "Drive This Bus" (as Steven would say) towards the Eola site (or AME land flip flop or whatever): Then lets get it on the ballot. As everyonne knows, I am not in favor of this site for about 5 or 6 reasons; but if the majority feels this is the "must have site" then a true vote would sure identify that.

5. Start from scratch: Dump the 2nd ref; and launch a 3rd referendum. dont list site or boundries (or do), there is a clean slate. I think the majority of D204 would be opposed to this option; but it is still an option.

6. I am sure there are many others: use the ref money to expand the two existing schools etc. I just dont know the legality of using money slated for a "new HS" for expansion of two existing HS's.

To Jim Jandick and Dollars & Sense: i will look for you both at the 4/14 meeting. I was going to try and address the board on 4/14, I guess my "put it up for a vote" is still valid at this juncture for most of the available options (with a little modification given recent events). Please come find me after the meeting (if I get a chance to address the board, you will see me if you are there). If you have a few minutes, I would sure like to get your takes on all of this.

Thanks
GF

Children were NOT threatened by the blogger. The "threat" is from the parent who see's going to WVHS as such. The children are getting what the parent did not want most. Stop spinning that and READ!! Sad seems to be your state

It is really interesting that almost everyone smashing the White Eagle and Tall Grass communities chooses to be anonymous. I was totally against the new site from day one. YOU DON"T NEED TO REMEDIATE SAFE SITES. The SB was against it two years ago and all of sudden their for it, anyone ever hear of desperation. I have been and always will be a happy part of the WVHS community

You have an new supporter in me. After reading these blogs and seeing those who are for the SB it disgusted me in the way they blog calling NSFOC names and threatening children. It is down right displeasing and because of their actions I am now voicing my support for this group.

I am for NFSOC and I am glad they had the strength to stand up to the board. Keep up the good work and keep asking the tough questions. Your new supporter!

By any means possible seems to be the slogan of the NSFOC. Well as long as they can sleep at night that's good. I don't support the Eola site just the tactics of the NSFOC are disgusting, that is what I oppose. BB, Eola it's the same to me personally. It's just really sad and ugly the way this has happened. This is not a threat but I have found that you don't do things like this without stuff coming back to you. Call it bad karma whatever but it seems to come back to ya or someone you love IMO

Again - no children are being threatened. I agree with the earlier blogger advising you to go get your meds KS - you really should. There was a post yesterday (not by me) you tried to blow out of proportion as well - when the blogger said that the TG kids won't be liked at Waubonsie - sorry, hun but stating that someone isn't going to be liked is not a threat. Go watch your soap operas - that'll give you your needed drama for the day - don't twist things into something they're not.

dear sad state,I agree with you things are way out of hand. to blame actions of parents on kids is just plain wrong. I have no problem with my kids going to wv, so no fear here anonymous at8:06, but my god what are people thinking? guess what my kids would be fine where ever they go because they are good hearted, not selfish, not brats just good kids. But somehow these people who make these blanketed posts seem to personally know everyone in tall grass and can say things like this.

Disgust with NSFOC@ 5:31 on 4/10 - Count me in!

Disgust with NSFOC@ 5:31 on 4/10 - Count me in!

To: By sad state on April 10, 2008 7:48 PM
I understand that you don’t want TG to go WVHS, but maybe, just maybe, if they do, they’ll bring the scores up, that’s what the SB has in mind, academic balance.

Disgust with NSFOC? PLEASE count me in.

We have lived in Naperville/Aurora area since 1998 and I cannot believe that people so full of hate have been living around us all this time. Take a long hard look at yourselves - do you like what you see ? Do you like the hate that you are spreading around ? I feel sorry for you. I feel sorry for your children, for your parents, for your loved ones and for your friends (if you have any). WV or NV or MV - what difference does it make ? These are just walls of concrete and bricks. Are they worth the hate that you are spewing on your neighboors, subdivisions, on children, on co-workers, on shoppers next to you in line, on youth who serves your hamburger at a drive-thru, a teenager who helps you with your shopping cart at Jewel or Wal-Mart ? They may be living in these subdivisions that you hate so mcuh. Think about it next time when someone offers a helping hand or says a friendly hello. They could be from the neighborhood you hate. I feel soooooo sorry for you and your hate.

For those considering building an addition on to WV, forget it. The land footprint won't support additional building -- the school is landlocked. Portables, sure...anyone can put anything in a parking lot. But it's simply not possible to add on to the building.

An interesting comment for this blogger group, my 6th grader is thrilled to be back at WV. He grudgingly accepted going to MV. Unfortunately, we've not been successful keeping the TG/WE "situation" away from him. Middle school kids talk as much as adults and they sure have done a number on the TG/WE communities at Granger. He's rather concerned about whether TG/WE will be moved into his HS. That's for another day, I guess.

Lastly, let's all pray MV never gets built. Then Jim Schmid stays at WV where he belongs!

Re: Greg Forrest

What a turn of events indeed Greg. The options for our third high school are becoming more limited by the hour. Glad to hear you will be at the Monday meeting, I feel we will not be alone at this meeting. With the north location out of commission maybe its time to go south. I can think of a couple of lawyers that are feeling pretty confident right now.

My concerns are only growing because we have accomplished little with regard to the overcrowding at the middle and high school level. It is time to have this play out as a win - win for all school families. If at this late hour we as a district can put our differences a side, roll up our sleeves and get to work on the third high school it can be built. The timetable on the other hand will have to be pushed back.

Concerned families on all sides of this issue are emotional and probably very motivated, which if channeled to get the high school built, will be a very positive situation. I hope cooler highly motivated families prevail.

anybody else here think that nsfoc people are posing as eola supporters and posting inflamatory comments? these are the same sad individuals last week claiming to be from stonebridge.

By a mom on April 10, 2008 5:03 PM
Dear Naperville Residents

"I guess buying a house near a great school and believing that your children will attend is a crime according to some of you - If it's a big house then it's a felony!!"

NAH....there's lots of people that live in houses far larger than yours.They chose to go to WV with normal people. They also would never sue themselves or a school district representing their children's education.It's not a felony it's just low class and shameful.

I too am disgusted with NSFOC and their chaos rendering "Lawyer". Count me in!

To G. Forrest--

Will do, as long as there is still a SB meeting on 4/14, given today's turn of events.

The Naperville Sun said that "Daeschner fires back over 'misinformation"

What the Naperville Sun failed to point out was that the firing was in typical Daeschner style....READY, FIRE, AIM

Considering his job performance I'm willing to bet that Daeschner gets really nervous whenever the word "fire" is used within the same sentence containing his own name.

Count me in.

By a mom on April 10, 2008 5:03 PM
Dear Naperville Residents

I guess buying a house near a great school and believing that your children will attend is a crime according to some of you - If it's a big house then it's a felony!!

>>>>>>>>

If you bought in any of the new subdivisions in south Naperville you had to know that the increased population was going to put a strain on the crowding at the schools. Your own actions of building a new house put you in jeopardy of changing schools as new schools needed to be built. Building a new house does not entitle anyone to expectations that their world will stay the same but other world's will have to change to accomidate you.

Doesn't anyone else see the irony of the fact that Tall Grass built 1000 new homes but they expect the rest of the district to do without a needed 3rd high school because they overbuilt the population base?

The history will tell the tale and what people will remember is the damage to IPSD the NSFOC had. They made all of us become litigious, show classism, elitism and selfishness. I'm sorry TG but you will also bear this burden as well.

I'm quite positive that we will never have a 3rd high school, ever!! If the Ashwood subdivision does build out I believe that TG and Ashwood will be moved to WVHS. I always have been proud to be in the WVHS area and will now even more. I know how crowded it will be at WVHS, but I can't imagine how it will be at NVHS.

Yes NSFOC you might try to convince yourself that you had a positive effect on our school district and saved poor children (not your own I might add) from eating dirt in a fenced off area. However, you will also be remembered for falling property values in IPSD because we have 2 mega high schools and/or split shifts. That will be your lasting legacy.

Right now we are back to square one. This is not about what HS is the best/worst. You could have 3 kids who all end up at 3 different high schools the way this thing is playing out. My point is ALL 204 schools are currently good schools. Lets work to keep it that way. Lets make informed, planned, rational decisions about where and when the school should be built. Think outside the box, and lets be constructive instead of destructive.

Looks like the Eola elitist group are throwing a tantrum because they are not getting a contaminated school in their backyard.

Are you Eola elitist so selfserving that you can not see that D204 is costing the taxpayers millions, and millions of dollars because they have their own agenda.

It is interesting in your blogs that you say NSFOC is only 200-300 people and they will not stop the school board and then in your next blogs AFTER Midwest Gen doesn't move forward you start blaming NSFOC. Which is it?

How about looking at the school board who started with a condemnation lawsuit and put the price of BB out of range. Of course you don't want to BLAME THE SCHOOL BOARD who are a bunch of greedy selfish arrogant (dare I say true elitist) incompetents.

You may want to look at the school board, look in the mirror and rethink your position.

It would be interesting to see how many members of the NSFOC are parents of students who may not be going to Nequa due to boundary changes with the 3rd high school. With the reputation that IPSD has for education (curriculum & teachers), it shouldn't matter which high school you go to because the district does have high expectations for its teachers and curriculum. Trying to find arugements just to get your way is pretty pathetic.

to: By Anonymous on April 11, 2008 7:25 AM
Looks like the Eola elitist group are throwing a tantrum because they are not getting a contaminated school in their backyard.

(The land can be remediated - the independent experts have spoken)

Are you Eola elitist so selfserving that you can not see that D204 is costing the taxpayers millions, and millions of dollars because they have their own agenda.

(The only agenda D204 is to build a new school for the benefit of all children in the district)

It is interesting in your blogs that you say NSFOC is only 200-300 people and they will not stop the school board and then in your next blogs AFTER Midwest Gen doesn't move forward you start blaming NSFOC. Which is it?

(Until they prove otherwise, the NSFOC is 9 entitled self centered residents of 2 subdivisions that think that money puts them above everyone else).

How about looking at the school board who started with a condemnation lawsuit and put the price of BB out of range. Of course you don't want to BLAME THE SCHOOL BOARD who are a bunch of greedy selfish arrogant (dare I say true elitist) incompetents.

(the condemnation suit did not put the price out of range. It was trying to buy the most expensive land in the district just to try to satisfy one self centered entitled elitist subdivision rather than looking for the most reasonably priced land from the start.)

You may want to look at the school board, look in the mirror and rethink your position.

(I wouldn't want to be your mirror. Wouldn't want to have to look at your eliist face eveery morning)

Also,
Learn to count. The NSFOC has never answered the question as to what constitutes a member. They may have supporters and donors but the NSFOC is technically nine elists entitled snobs who beleive that they alone are entitled to choose the school they send their children to. Every school district in this country sets its own boundaries. As the population builds in districts, schools are built and boundaries are changed. It is the fact that Tall Grass built out that requires the distrcit to build a new school FOR ALL CHILDREN of the district. If boundaries send the Tall Grass children to a different school than the parents want for the best interest of the school then so be it. No children of any subdivision in the district are more important than the children of any other subdivision. What makes the Tall Grass children more important (special) than any other children that you file a lawsuit that says give us the new school or give no one a new school?

In the spirit of the NSFOC style of their website:

Who are the owners of the NSFOC? (still unanswered)

How many owners own the NSFOC? (still unanswered)

Are the donations tax deductible (they already know this answer as a result of how they filed their incorporation papers but choose to answer that they do not know but you should ask your tax professional)

How many documented members do they have? (numbers are thrown around of 200 to 300 up to 4,000 but less than 90 attended their last meeting)

What constitutes a member? (still unanswered)

What is the process of becoming member? (still unanswered)

Why won't they answer the membership question? (still unanswered)

Is it true that only the owners of the NSFOC can settle the lawsuit? (if membership question can't be answered, then this question can be answered by default)

Why won't the NSFOC post the amended lawsuit on their webpage? (still unanswered)

Why is the NSFOC already saying on these blogs that if they end up in WVHS if a third HS is not built, they will sue for retaliation? (Didn't the SB already tell them years ago that without a 3rd HS, they had to move to WVHS?)

What is Linda Holmes connection with the NSFOC?

Has Linda Holmes received donations from the NSFOC? (this will have to be disclosed per Illinois election laws)

Did Linda Holmes pressure Midwest Gen to pull the land off the market?

Aren't there many subdivisions other than Tall Grass within Linda Holmes district that will now have to suffer with overcrowding as a result of Midwest Gen pulling out? (Ashbury, remember this come November)

Can any NSFOC owner withstand the same scrutiny they put on Midwest Gen?

Is the NSFOC really willing to ruin the reputation of the D204 schools and destroy the property values in every subdivision to make sure they get what they want? (still unanswered)

Biggest question yet...Does the NSFOC really believe that their children are more important than all other children of the district? (asked numerous times by numerous different bloggers but still unanswered).

By Anonymous on April 10, 2008 11:18 PM
By a mom on April 10, 2008 5:03 PM
Dear Naperville Residents

I guess buying a house near a great school and believing that your children will attend is a crime according to some of you - If it's a big house then it's a felony!!

>>>>>>>>

If you bought in any of the new subdivisions in south Naperville you had to know that the increased population was going to put a strain on the crowding at the schools. Your own actions of building a new house put you in jeopardy of changing schools as new schools needed to be built. Building a new house does not entitle anyone to expectations that their world will stay the same but other world's will have to change to accomidate you.

Doesn't anyone else see the irony of the fact that Tall Grass built 1000 new homes but they expect the rest of the district to do without a needed 3rd high school because they overbuilt the population base?

__________________________

I Completely disagree with this statement.

The superintendent (Crouse) was on record in (2001 referendum with the conversion of middle schools to freshman centers, and in 2002-2004 stating the district DID NOT NEED ANOTHER HIGH SCHOOL.

Place the blame where it belongs. I moved to Tall Grass in 2002 after doing my homework and reading Mr. Crouse's confidence in the high school capacity.

By Anonymous on April 11, 2008 9:12 AM

Maybe if NSFOC did something wrong they would be held accountable by you? I am not a member but have praised thier efforts because I know the difference between right and wrong. Maybe if you wake up from your little dream you would see that none of us in TG or WE or in the NSFOC, the BB team, the Midwest Gen Team, or the SB answer to you. Try calling a CEO of a company and just start making demands because you are a shareholder. I bet you don't have enough pull to get him or her to pick up the phone, let alone talk with them. Your ego is to big just like the rest of the SB. If you want to get in the game find your own attorney and fight. Other than that method no one on any side has listened. It is a sad day when I would recommend an attorney pro-actively but you must feel you have a strong case. Go for it! At least you will realize that there is a big difference between fighting for what is right and fighting because you don't like something. The NSFOC has factual information on their website, backed up with SD reports, evironmental reports and other source materials. What do you have, Accusations? Try doing the right thing because it is the right thing to do. Stand up for something meaningful. No, not hatred. Do it now.

re NSFOC rumored to be ready to sue for $60 M in damges coupled with strong rumor of grassroots citizen referendum to break away NVHS from district 204 (if so, this is all over, no matter where the new HS gets built - thank you SB for this)
---------

NSFOC damages has been a small rumor for some time. Now that individuals on on lawsuit, that can be determined.

There is a process for citizens' referendum, but not sure what that process is. Yes, that can happen, but it is probably a long process. Given how fired up most people are by the SB, if they continue their antics and do not get reasonable soon, then the energy level will be higher for residents to support such a split. And NSFOC haters WILL support that effort as well, so the vote would be very close - just a guess.

Earth to SB on April 11, 2008 10:28 AM
By Anonymous on April 11, 2008 9:12 AM

Maybe if NSFOC did something wrong they would be held accountable by you? I am not a member but have praised thier efforts because I know the difference between right and wrong. Maybe if you wake up from your little dream you would see that none of us in TG or WE or in the NSFOC, the BB team, the Midwest Gen Team, or the SB answer to you. Try calling a CEO of a company and just start making demands because you are a shareholder. I bet you don't have enough pull to get him or her to pick up the phone, let alone talk with them. Your ego is to big just like the rest of the SB. If you want to get in the game find your own attorney and fight. Other than that method no one on any side has listened. It is a sad day when I would recommend an attorney pro-actively but you must feel you have a strong case. Go for it! At least you will realize that there is a big difference between fighting for what is right and fighting because you don't like something. The NSFOC has factual information on their website, backed up with SD reports, evironmental reports and other source materials. What do you have, Accusations? Try doing the right thing because it is the right thing to do. Stand up for something meaningful. No, not hatred. Do it now.

---------------

I could not have said it better. Great Post!

earth to SB...your homemade website asks lots of questions but no answers. The experts said the site would pass IEPA standards and receive a no more remidiation letter...so you attack the IEPA. Midwest Gen has never been sited for violations at the Eola site so you attack Midwest Gen itself. Get over yourself. If you don't like the question, you attack who is asking the question.

try attacking this...every chemical that collins questions as to the possiblity of being on the eola site can be remediated...EVERYONE. Why doesn't your website include that? You are correct that your site has plenty of information but NO WHERE on your site do you show the complete truth. As your own attorney stated publicly...let's keep throwing enough what-ifs against the wall. yes, you state some truths but not the whole truth. You use scare tactics to raise funds.

The NSFOC is yet to tell anybody who owns the NSFOC. How many? Claim to have "members" but refuses to define what a "member" is. And yes I know that will open up a can of legal worms. Go ahead and atack me for asking but you are yet to answer.

You post a complaint on your website. But that complaint has been amended so the complaint you are showing is not the complaint before the judge. And yet you use this "old complaint" to raise money under the corporate structure of a not for profit corporation.

I think it is a shame that nine (9, 8 + 1, n-i-n-e)entitled people with deep pockets can hold an entire school district hostage and yet think they are entitled to hide. The NSFOC asks a lot of questions but doesn't answer any! NSFOC what are you hiding? Why are you hiding? You think you are above the rest of us...then start answering some questions. Or keep ducking the questions, and attacking people for asking questions. Coward.

Just say No to the Entitled Nine.

One northern subdivision Brookdale and its SB representatives hijacked the whole school district from due diligent process at the first place. The only benefit of the hazardous Eola site is in Brookdale backyard and they can get out of WV no matter how much love they claimed they have on the school. WV is such a great school and its reputation has been damaged by those Brookdale "lovers". Let us assume if we built high school on this hazardous site, maybe one day this Brookdale neighborhood can file class action suit against the whole school district for any "possible health and financial damages" because SB build the high school on this site knowing it is hazardous. Then all Brookdale get rich with award of our tax payers' money ! What a brilliant plan for such selfish subdivision !

By anonymous on April 11, 2008 11:06 AM
re NSFOC rumored to be ready to sue for $60 M in damges coupled with strong rumor of grassroots citizen referendum to break away NVHS from district 204 (if so, this is all over, no matter where the new HS gets built - thank you SB for this)
---------

NSFOC damages has been a small rumor for some time. Now that individuals on on lawsuit, that can be determined.

There is a process for citizens' referendum, but not sure what that process is. Yes, that can happen, but it is probably a long process. Given how fired up most people are by the SB, if they continue their antics and do not get reasonable soon, then the energy level will be higher for residents to support such a split. And NSFOC haters WILL support that effort as well, so the vote would be very close - just a guess.

>>>>>>>>>>

I think the voters within the district would be so upset with the NSFOC that the district will vote for just the opposite of what the NSFOC wants.

I would like to see them try to sue for damages. At that point, the truth about the NSFOC owners will have to be put in public record. The donors who thought they were donating to support a district wide cause or even just the environmental concerns will learn their money went to benefit just the nine named plaintiffs. Go for it NSFOC.

AParent

Why is this a brookdale thing? I don't live at brookdale but I support the eola location.

Please note. The experts, not a board housewife building the NSFOC website, have stated that the land can be remediated and that the land poses no further threat. They are the experts. They are not part of a big conspiracy.

But nice try for trying to take the heat off of the entitled nine from Tall Grass who used misleading information and political influence to kill the third high school.

By Anonymous on April 11, 2008 11:57 AM
earth to SB...your homemade website asks lots of questions but no answers. The experts said the site would pass IEPA standards and receive a no more remidiation letter...so you attack the IEPA. Midwest Gen has never been sited for violations at the Eola site so you attack Midwest Gen itself. Get over yourself. If you don't like the question, you attack who is asking the question.

try attacking this...every chemical that collins questions as to the possiblity of being on the eola site can be remediated...EVERYONE. Why doesn't your website include that? You are correct that your site has plenty of information but NO WHERE on your site do you show the complete truth. As your own attorney stated publicly...let's keep throwing enough what-ifs against the wall. yes, you state some truths but not the whole truth. You use scare tactics to raise funds.

The NSFOC is yet to tell anybody who owns the NSFOC. How many? Claim to have "members" but refuses to define what a "member" is. And yes I know that will open up a can of legal worms. Go ahead and atack me for asking but you are yet to answer.

You post a complaint on your website. But that complaint has been amended so the complaint you are showing is not the complaint before the judge. And yet you use this "old complaint" to raise money under the corporate structure of a not for profit corporation.

I think it is a shame that nine (9, 8 + 1, n-i-n-e)entitled people with deep pockets can hold an entire school district hostage and yet think they are entitled to hide. The NSFOC asks a lot of questions but doesn't answer any! NSFOC what are you hiding? Why are you hiding? You think you are above the rest of us...then start answering some questions. Or keep ducking the questions, and attacking people for asking questions. Coward.

Just say No to the Entitled Nine.
..................................................................
Just say no to drugs or get a pair of glasses. As I have pointed out, I am not a part of the NSFOC but support what they are doing because they stand for something like common sense and good judgement. I did not read your entire blog due to the BS right off. You really have no idea about anything other than HATE do you? Entitled 9 is a label that another non organized group of Haters started to call some of our fellow residence due to a misconception about what they are about. Try actually reading the support material they provide and you will realize how pathetic you are in your attacks on them. These are people from multiple Races and Religions, of all ages, Men and Women who are asking questions of the SB due to wrong doing by them. Do you always believe it is right to shoot the whisle blower. How unfortunate that you represent the small minded minority of the population that regards others success or position as a threat to you personally. I realize that the Lawsuit is against the district including myself. I am willing to pay my share to get what is right. And by God's own hand I will be right up front fighting for what is right. I don't care that we have another minority called the NSFOC that could cost me a few tax dollars when I have a reclass SB wasting millions. Get on the right side and dig just a little deeper to find your answers. Come to one of the NSFOC meetings and you will see that these are good, respectable leaders in our community that have organized to help keep the SB within reason. If you don't want to come stop with all the ignorant hate comments.

Some people tried to speak for the whole school district and claimed there was a fight between SD and NSFOC. NO ! You just can not speak for me, a resident of this great district, and my neighbours and so many people across district.

NSFOC is fighting for the safety of our children, the accountability of our SB, the future of our school district.

Go NSFOC !!!

When some people claimed that a hazardous land site can be remediated to be safe for our children, it makes me laugh and angry at the same time. Thereotically ALL the land can be remediated, including nuclear waste dump ! But how much cost ? how long does it take to REMEDIATE it ? how much side effect ? How much potential damage to our children ? I guess if you remove all the dirt through the other side of this earth, you can remediate ANYTHING. But I will never take any risk with my kids' health even though you can do that.

If those people love that site that much, why don't you sell your Brookdale houses, talk to the company, build your home there and enjoy your non-harzardous, or remediated, backyard.

It's not so much what the NSFOC is fighting, it is how they do it that many folks find absolutely disgusting.

To: Earth to SB on April 11, 2008 12:58 PM

"These are people from multiple Races and Religions, of all ages, Men and Women who are asking questions of the SB due to wrong doing by them. Do you always believe it is right to shoot the whisle blower."
__________________

Thanks for finally clarifying what we have all been saying from the begining. They are suing us/the IPSD because what they feel was a wrong doing to THEM!!!

"Come to one of the NSFOC meetings and you will see that these are good, respectable leaders in our community that have organized to help keep the SB within reason."

___________________

I was at your last meeting it was not well organized. It was a powerpoint demonstration and then an attorney that tried his best to answer questions. Which, I might add, he didn't do that good of a job at. His message was one of propaganda, create as many "what-if's" as possible (Mr. Collins words, not mine).

It is quite sad if you can't see how this case is purly about ones own self interests and not that of the IPSD. If you can't let me point you to your words used above. They felt it was a "wrong doing to them".

Anonymous on April 11, 2008 12:43 PM
By anonymous on April 11, 2008 11:06 AM
re NSFOC rumored to be ready to sue for $60 M in damges coupled with strong rumor of grassroots citizen referendum to break away NVHS

DO YOU ALWAYS MAKE UP THIS MANY LIES? It is apparent that you are grasping at straws. LIES, LIES, LIES THAT IS ALL EOLA WHINERS CAN COME UP WITH.

To Anonymous on April 11, 2008 12:43 PM--

Could you explain what a citizen's referendum is, and how it can be used to take NVHS out of District 204? NVHS was built by 204 using tax money from all 204 residents, thus it should belong to 204 residents. If it was taken out of 204, wouldn't someone have to pay restitution to the taxpayers who paid for it? This all sounds very bizarre to me. Thanks.

$60M in damages coupled with strong rumor of grassroots citizen referendum to break away NVHS? As Jason pointed out, these ARE LIES, LIES, LIES, Yeah (sing along, do you remember the song?). There's enough problems out here without making up lies to go with it! There is no such thing as a $60M lawsuit (unless you count the Brodie suit at $40 and the separate Brach suit).

I'm glad NSFOC exists. Blame us all you want but we have plenty that support us and we are making a difference. At least we won't be building at MWgen property. That site is so wrong for the SD. Go NSFOC!!!

The NSFOC is nine entitled self absorb tall grass and white eagle residents. Those you you who say you support it are uninformed. They set themselves up as a corporation with a limited number of owners. They did not set up a membership organization. The NSFOC is the entitled nine. Keep sending your money. This is not about environmental causes. I look forward to the coming lawsuits against the nine named plaintiffs of the NFSOC for misrepresentation. Thank god they incorporated as not for profit. I love those stricter standards.

Eola is not dead yet!

To Anonymous 3:11 PM "Eola is not dead yet !"

You are righ: Eola is not dead -- it can be used for other facility used by our park district, like golf course or drive range, but for a school ? you are blinded by agenda-driven SB. Or if you are thinking about building a school on s small land next to that hazardous land, you are just out of your mind.

I am appalled at the venom I see in this blog. I just spent the last 30 minutes reading the comments, and regardless of what side of the issue one may be on, we should all be ashamed of ourselves. I am a Tall Grass resident and to hear comments like TG children will not be well-liked at WVHS can only be perpetuated by parents such as those who seem to really hate TG and WE residents. For me too many questions about the issues around the Eola property and now the decision by MG to not sell the property. I am sure that as soon as many of you read this I will be branded when you see Tall Grass in the text. We moved to TG to be close to NV by choice and we also understood at that time from Crouse's comments that a new HS was not necessary. Notice I have not called any group or community a nasty name. Let's stick to the facts, stop the name calling and come up with some workable solutions.

To By Anonymous on April 11, 2008 3:03 PM

It's ironic how you attack people and specific subdivisions for that matter, who are passionate about THEIR CHILDREN and the decisions made within school district 204.

Why are you on blogging on this site? EXACTLY, because you share the same exact same passion as them only you have a contrary view. You are no better.

Due to all of your blogging, you simply helped this story gain momentum and ADD credibility to this case. Thank you very much for the free advertisement. When it comes to my children and their well-being I WILL get involved. If you think that is “snooty” or I am being a “bad apple”---tough and get over it.

I don't think ANYONE JOINED OR DONATED TO THE NSFOC for the tax break or donation status. People took up their OWN personal money, because they did not want to get steam rolled and bamboozled by the same school board which only 2 years ago (read the board minutes and seek the truth) which clearly acknowledged that the Eola site WAS NOT AN OPTION DUE TO POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS. Why are you not getting this? Hello McFly. Is anyone home?

You should be thanking NSFOC for ensuring that there were sufficient checks and balances within this school district.

Go common sense!!!!!!!!1

To:By Shocked on April 11, 2008 4:22 PM
Here's a little school yard advice (for yourself - not your children - so don't do your usual drama and twist this). When you sue the rest of your classmates (being the residents of district 204) your going to make some enemies - not sure why your shocked at the back lash TG is receiving - it's human nature. And again - to be clear this is directed towards you and the adults that sued the rest of us - and by enemies - I mean we aren't going to like you - which is perfectly legal. This is not a threat to do bodily harm as you might want to twist this into. Oh, and we also have the right to sue - that's not a threat either, that's a fact.

By Earth to Earth on April 11, 2008 1:46 PM
To: Earth to SB on April 11, 2008 12:58 PM

"These are people from multiple Races and Religions, of all ages, Men and Women who are asking questions of the SB due to wrong doing by them. Do you always believe it is right to shoot the whisle blower."
__________________

Thanks for finally clarifying what we have all been saying from the begining. They are suing us/the IPSD because what they feel was a wrong doing to THEM!!!
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Read it again you idiot. That is not what I said. If you are going to quote you should highlight and copy not try to hard to type. "wrong doing by them." Next time you might be brighter than those you support. That is the same type of mistake the SB makes in every negotiation and public interaction. Talk about hearing what you want. Now your only reading what you want. Have a great night.

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"Come to one of the NSFOC meetings and you will see that these are good, respectable leaders in our community that have organized to help keep the SB within reason."

___________________

I was at your last meeting it was not well organized. It was a powerpoint demonstration and then an attorney that tried his best to answer questions. Which, I might add, he didn't do that good of a job at. His message was one of propaganda, create as many "what-if's" as possible (Mr. Collins words, not mine).

It is quite sad if you can't see how this case is purly about ones own self interests and not that of the IPSD. If you can't let me point you to your words used above. They felt it was a "wrong doing to them".
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So agree to disagree and don't go back you obviously didn't contribute to the meeting and point out their shortcomings did you. To bad maybe they need a clear thinker like you on the team.

Good night everyone. Thanks for a fun filled day. I especially liked the playing your little game of insults. You win.

dear anon. at 4:51 when oh when are you going to get a clue and realize it is not tallgrass that has sued the residents of ipsd204 it is the nsfoc! god, I know I am not the brightest crayon in the box but even I can understand this concept.

To tall grass - no you're obviously not the brightest crayon in the box bc it is TG that sued the rest of us when are you going to understand what you've done.

To By Anonymous on April 12, 2008 9:05 AM
You are correct, Tall Grass is not the brightest crayon in the box, but they are the SHARPEST CRAYON in the box. 9 small people took on the ENTIRE school board. How do you like them apples? :)

Stop blaming Tall Grass and start looking at the real culprits...the administration and school board.

By Anonymous on April 12, 2008 9:05 AM
To tall grass - no you're obviously not the brightest crayon in the box bc it is TG that sued the rest of us when are you going to understand what you've done.

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This is not even worth responding to, really. I don't understand why people are trying to communicate with the people that write trash like these blogs. They serve no purpose and expose the ignorant by nature. Who really cares what these people have to say. There is trash in every neighborhood. Obviously those that would single out a group of people just because they moved to a subdivision are ignorant. Quit reacting to them.

Doesn't this seem like a group of Middle School children picking on someone because the clothing they ware. Those kinds of people know who they are and just need to grow up.

By Anonymous on April 12, 2008 9:05 AM
To tall grass - no you're obviously not the brightest crayon in the box bc it is TG that sued the rest of us when are you going to understand what you've done.

We should consult Ricky Bobby again. How about a little shake and bake on the subject.

Go Ricky, GO!

great wittism but I still am capable of knowing if my name is on any lawsuit and sice its not and since I do live in tall grass that pretty much means its not a whole subdidivion that is suing ipsd. thats pretty much like saying theres a nighbor of yours that works tirelessly at a charity but being as you are neighbors you can take the credit for it also. no my dull little crayon I am not the brightest but at least I can say I am not as dull as you!

Moderator Jim...where is my post of about 7:30 AM this morning???

Do you have you a vested intereste in this news?

joeblowitoutyoura, the school board is doing what the voters told them to do. Acquire land and build a third high school. I read my referendum before voting for it. I also know that your attorney is quoting Metzger's email about bait and switch omitting key parts of the same sentence. I guess he didn't think anyone would notice that. I guess the sharpest crayon in the box is only good for drawing on walls. For the rest of us who can read before we vote, we wish you well with hooked on phonics.

I have a few questions:

Who did AME buy their property from and for what price?

Is the NSFOC really going to file a $60M damages suit for the cost difference between BB site and Eola?

How good is rumor about NVHS split off from D204 into a new district?

Thanks to anyone who can confirm the facts.

By Anonymous on April 12, 2008 12:09 PM
joeblowitoutyoura, the school board is doing what the voters told them to do. Acquire land and build a third high school. I read my referendum before voting for it. I also know that your attorney is quoting Metzger's email about bait and switch omitting key parts of the same sentence. I guess he didn't think anyone would notice that. I guess the sharpest crayon in the box is only good for drawing on walls. For the rest of us who can read before we vote, we wish you well with hooked on phonics.
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I'll bet you end up eating those words. There has been so much wrong doing by this SB, Hooked on Phonics couldn't even correct address the solutions.

Dear all folks blogging on this thread,
I read most of it and will try to comment on some of the themes and specific comments seen.
Regarding Shawn Collins being late for the meeting - I understand he was scheduled for the time he arrived...maybe he was 10 minutes late.
Regarding NSFOC meetings - most have been open meetings, and from what I've seen they have patiently gone over their positions and answered all questions asked. They appear to have nothing to hide.
Regarding NSFOC data - they seem to be willing to admit mistakes and correct them when they come up. The group is trying to keep up with the information between busy lives (like we all have). However, the more they dig, the worse it gets for D204 officials.
For Example 1 - NSFOC thought the power plant was adjacent to the Eola site, but when pictures were attacked, they dug some more and found that the power plant was actually on-site, and got more pictures like the sign on the fence of the peaker plant that read "Caution: Contains PCB's". Are you blind or something? How can you get more explicit than that? PCBs may not be found by Testing Services Corporation even though it's on the sign (remember this for Monday).
For Example 2 - The transportation costs were thought to be negligible, but as NSFOC dug deeper, the numbers became significant ($14++ million in net present value terms). Obviously, the one person attacking that transportation number has no idea how NPV works. The Net Present Value (NPV) is all the annual differences added up, then discounted back to today's dollars. In other words, the real dollars are much higher - like $30 million or about an incremental $1.5 million more for Eola than BB - then discounted and summed up to $14++ million. You see Eola has to get nailed with all the incremental costs for new bus riders from south to central, and from central to north..as well as the extra time and fuel costs - All because the northern site is much farther from the student population. Even the slowest person can figure that one out.
Regarding the comment about "Naperville" schools for the children - the BB site IS in Aurora - always was. I believe NSFOC is trying to get the SB to go back to BB site right? So what were those people talking about?
Regarding the Metzger comment about being engaged with the Illinois EPA - The IEPA was never contacted and confirmed as such. This is an indisputable lie. I understand that all quotes are backed up by video or written copy. Those quotes are all over the place. To use the IEPA to build public trust is criminal in some people's views.
Regarding the fixation on members of NSFOC - you have seen them everywhere in blogs using their names, in the newspapers, at meetings. And who cares where they are from? They will never give up any donor or member information because they do not have to. The directors (3) will be known, but they are already in the papers (thus no news). I would want them on my side even if they were from Wheaton! They could save the district $100 million in my view.
Regarding safety - very real issue I think - like more kids on buses for longer times, more student drivers/parents in rush hour traffic, high pressure gas lines through the middle of the site, EMF, PCBs, possible 26 other hazardous chemicals, potential train derailment - Am I missing something here? The potential lawsuits from any major accidents or sick kids...these can run $100 million when its all over. Are people having a blind spot or something?
Your school board is well on it's way to destroying your school district. I already have moved to district 203...and waiting for my property values to rise during the mass exodus from 204.
What is so funny is how the "unaffected" 204 people are not watching. Well, they will be watching when the backfill requirements to fill up the declining northern enrollment reaches further into the NVHS nation. That will be fun to watch. And now that there will be a nice new school in the north, the closing of WVHS will also be fun to watch. Then people will be wondering where the NSFOC is then. Well, if supported they will be in 204 with a smaller MVHS or a larger Frontier campus, a great WVHS, and a great NVHS...having saved the district from itself. If they are not supported they may be in 203 by then with a closed WVHS in 204 and many more kids being bused north to MVHS including new boundaries where north of 95th goes all the way to MVHS! ..and a poor district on the edge of insolvency due to lawsuits from perceived sick kids that cannot be defended.
Regarding the timing of the NSFOC organization forming - hell, you try to organize like that. As I understand it, the organization was formed only when the last straw was hit. One strike or two might have been OK, but 3 was the killer. This does not mean that any one was more important than another. The problem is the SB went too far, and now they will pay. I would want NSFOC on my side (these people are on mission, well-funded, and hardened warriors..with right on their side. Right is very hard to stop or silence).
To me it looks like the issues are constitutional (voted for X and got Y), safety, and cost exposure. The current total cost (all in principle/interest/operations) of $350 million should turn a few heads. Are the other "currently unaffected" taxpayers watching this space? Are they blind fools?
So I predict the following: NSFOC wins. BB site cannot be done on basis of referendum cost. New referendum is attempted but the SB/district screw that up too. Referendum is defeated. No new high chool. Revelations finally surface that it was never needed. SB gets thrown out. Super gets fired. Some referendum bond brokers and 2 former school board members go to jail. There is a brief crunch period say 3 years of crowding, then the steady decline begins and everyone lives happily ever after having saved $350 million and set D204 on track to become best in Illinois!!!!!
Forgive the length because I only blog once every few months.
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Good points on the environmental issues regarding a) future lawsuits, and b) PCBs may not be found even though it's on the sign to the peaker power plant. In the future, if a parent has a sick kid, and there is any evidence of exposure whatssoever to hazardous materials or environment(perceived or otherwise), and D204 have a weak basis for defending itself (example, less than thorough testing and using companies that make their money on finding little contamination for all parties involved), then you get lawsuits and settlements. This can add up over time. There are a lot of examples out there.
Thus, you should expect a relatively clean bill of health from the well-heeled players in the environmental risk game (the testing companies and the polluters). There will be a few things found like diesel - expected since it was in tanks (of course they will only have tested for diesel and a couple safe other chemicals that are easily cleaned up).
There will be a cleanup and MW Gen will pay up to $1 million or so for that cleanup (of course that $ will be added to the purchase price for the MW Gen that has not been shared yet - huumm ..wonder why). Also note there were only 66 boring samples taken. Now there are over 90 ...wonder why (is this to show more thorough coverage - of course it is because they did not cover anything the first time around).
And you can expect the not-well-heeled D204 to pick up ALL future liability and ALL future costs of the cleanup. The D204 taxpayers pick up the tab again.
The other environmental tragedy is the pollution from all the new busing required to backfill students into the north. All this because the north location is far from the student population - a fact acknowledged by the district in its own site approval report for the 2006 referendum. How sad the decision-making we are faced with in D204.
I don't know whether to laugh or cry for my children.

Sounds like the church is going to offer up the rest of their land. Hmmmm...

"Our stance was always that our 80 acres was not negotiable, to the school district or anyone," Forest said Friday, according to the report. "But the church is very saddened for the children of District 204 and disappointed for them." Citing "God's will," according to the report, the church has now decided to enter into negotiations with the district that would include all their property"

Could it be because...

"Last night the real estate transaction history was looked up for Eola site, and we found out that the AME church bought their 83 acres from Midwest Gen (yes, the same guys) in 2004. They also paid only $2.9 million for those 83 acres ($35,000 per acre). The district was offering AME about $12 million for 49 acres (that's $245,000 per acre). That's 7 times the price AME paid in 2004 in just 4 years - 700%! - for the same industrial type property that may be polluted as well. This brings into question the seven secret reports of environmental results. Were those reports perhaps from some of the AME property???

Not a bad investment return for this non-profit organization!

Nothing wrong with making good business decisions. I wonder what kind of absurd profit the BB owners were attempting to rob from the SB?? Luckily the SB was smart enough to find environmentally safe land, in the perfect location for 1/2 the price. Kudos to the SB for saving us tons of money. The only thing they need to do now is slap an injunction on the people harassing and trying to derail this project using illegal tactics.

To Anon on 4/13 at 11:33 AM--

Kudos to the SB for saving us tons of money? The SB hasn't saved us anything yet. All they've done is put taxpayers at risk of paying out millions in damages to the BB landowners. Brodie is asking for $40.2 million at this time, Brach is still calculating their damage claim. The only thing the SB has accomplished so far is throwing out all '06 referendum promises, causing divisivness in 204 by choosing a school location that was not approved by the voters, and bringing 3 separate lawsuits against the district that could cost US millions.

It's too early to be slapping the SB on the back and giving them "attaboys". No illegal tactics are being used by anyone who opposes the SB. All three lawsuits are perfectly legal and will be decided in court. Until they are, I suggest you not count your chicks before they hatch. That's what got the SB in trouble.

The land the church is selling district 204 was purchased in 2004 for $35,000 per acre. Our school board, in this down real estate market, has just agreed to purchase the land for $19M. Let me do the math for you! The church paid 2.9M in 2004. The taxpayers of district 204 are paying 19.4M 4 years later. Your fabulous SB just negotiated the sale of the century at a 668% increase! WOW...that church has got to be laughing all the way to the bank. No matter if you agree or disagree with the site you have got to take notice of this and realize something isn't right - why all of a sudden does an organization go from not wanting to sell any of their land to selling a big portion to selling it all! Are they doing it out of the goodness of their hearts? and for the children of district 204? or for the money? or is the land really have problems? I'm just asking but the more I see this unfold the more I question whether our children should attend school at this site!