At the April 16 Facilities Committee meeting, it became painfully clear that Superintendent Fee is determined to push a multi-million-dollar gym and athletic complex to the school board before the committee’s work is finished. Just like the failed 2023 referendum, Fee is rushing this process—and ignoring serious concerns from the public and committee members.
From the start, Fee controlled the narrative. Public attendees were told they couldn’t speak—despite being encouraged to comment at the previous committee meeting. Then he shifted the tone: “Let’s move toward some form of decision-making tonight so we can prepare for next week’s board meeting.” This push came even as multiple committee members voiced concern about unresolved details.
The cost of relocating a major water main—critical to the gym’s construction—hadn’t even been considered. When asked if it had been accounted for, Fee replied, “That’s a great question. That’s something we’d be working through if we move to the next phase with our architect.” One member responded bluntly: “I’m worried we’re setting ourselves up for a million-dollar surprise.”
And this wasn’t the only red flag. The plan keeps changing. What was originally presented as a dedicated arts space in the old gym is now “a flex space.” One member pointed out, “We’re still talking about a pretty sizable number. I don’t think we’re even done yet.”
When Fee called for a show of hands to pick a project phase, committee members pushed back. “We haven’t talked about a phased approach,” one said. “Shouldn’t we vote on that before anything goes to the board?” Another asked, “Why are we doing this now if we don’t even have all the costs?”
Even the community survey—meant to guide this process—was pushed aside. “We were supposed to let the survey guide us,” a member said. “Instead, it feels like we’re being told what the plan is.”
Let’s be clear: Easton Valley already has two functioning gyms that are not in disrepair. As one member said, “We’re not in crisis. These buildings are usable.” Yet Fee warned, “If we delay this now, some of these improvements might not be feasible for another decade”—a clear tactic to pressure the committee.
A former parent described it perfectly: “No one wants to be saddled with more debt when we’re in a volatile financial crisis… When times are tough, you scale back and only buy what you need.”
This project is being forced forward without due diligence. Easton Valley residents deserve better.
If you would like to speak during public comment at the Wednesday, April 24 Board meeting, call the school at (563) 689-4221 before 3:00 p.m. to be added to the speaker list.
—Richard Betts
