The Knox School Board has decided to hold off on the purchase of an electronic message board until firmer plans are in place for a potential building project. During a recent meeting, Superintendent Dr. William Reichhart said possible changes to the corporation’s facilities, including the potential demolition of part of the elementary school, have caused him to rethink the sign’s location.
But he also warned that it could cost more if they wait. “I do know that in talking to the people that gave me the quote from Argos that they feel with the tariffs, that the price may go up,” Reichhart said, “but that’s true, just about, for anything.”
The two-sided electronic message board is currently estimated to cost about $45,000, not including taxes, permits, and electrical installation. The cost would be covered by money the corporation recently received in NIPSCO energy efficiency rebates.
There was some discussion about a potential location. Some school board members suggested working with Starke Hospital, the city, or INDOT about securing a site on U.S. 35, due to the higher traffic. Others felt it would be more appropriate to place the sign on the schools’ campus. Reichhart noted that other than U.S. 35, the intersection of Main Street and Culver Road has the most traffic. But with houses nearby, he worried that putting a flashing sign there may annoy some of the neighbors.
In the end, board members voted to table the purchase of the sign until facility improvement plans are further along. Board member Kirk Bennett also suggested having architectural firm Schmidt Associates consider a potential sign location as part of the planning process.
