The myth of “too costly”
Please note: This letter reflects opinions regarding the November 2024 “Middle Ground” school referendum. It does not represent the current 2025 Cape Elizabeth school proposal which is an updated and revised version.
BY ROB KRAUSER
The Courier’s October 23, 1993 issue had an insert from the School Building Committee of that time on the process of deciding on building and renovation options for Cape schools. One option was to build two new schools for $16-$18 million. They passed on this, citing it being “too costly.”
Certain members of the current Cape community decry the only new building option the 2024 SBAC is still considering (Option E) as “too costly.” Looking at overall cost and tax percentage increase, it’s hard to argue with them.
But the real question is, what will the actual tax impact be on Cape residents?
Thankfully, the SBAC has provided that information, verified by Town Manager Matt Sturgis.
For a median value home in Cape, currently $700,000, the tax cost for Option E is $102 a month/$3.65 a day. $3.65 per day gets Cape a new MS which would last 60+ years, renovations to the ES and HS, and will require almost no disruption for students.
Option B, the cheapest option which is renovation/addition only, would cost $69 a month/ $2.47 a day. Option B would also mean 100% disruption for Cape students for up to three years (including possible bussing to schools outside of Cape). Those renovations would last 10-20 years, maximum.
The daily tax impact cost difference between Option E and Option B is $1.18.
Folks who still think option E is “too costly” either don’t have the facts or are willfully ignoring them.
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