The Act 34 public hearing for Seneca Valley School District’s proposed $115 million to $165 million project was held Sept. 8. A number of residents spoke in opposition to this project, with one noting the value of teaching our children about wise financial stewardship.

A 2022 feasibility study compared four options for the intermediate high school. The probable construction cost for full renovation and a new district office was estimated at $73 million (option 1). The school board chose option 3, at a substantially higher cost (partial demolition/renovation, connecting facilities, a performing arts center). It’s estimated this project will result in a tax increase of 11 mills; that’s $11 for every $1,000 in assessed property value.

The debt will be added to costs incurred for recent construction projects (e.g., Ehrman Crest Elementary and Middle School and Seneca Valley Aquatic Center).

Act 34 public comments will be accepted until the next school board meeting Oct. 8. Write a letter to the board or email them at schoolboard@svsd.net to express your concerns. It will take five of nine school board members to vote “no.”

Time is running out to send this project “back to the drawing board.”

Nancy Duerring, Cranberry Township