Tell School Officials How You Feel About Middle School Plan

The school district is looking to gauge voters' feelings about building a new middle school through an online survey.

Starting today, residents are asked to take a survey on the Strongsville Schools' website regarding the proposed $72 million bond issue to build a new middle school and make improvements to other buildings.

There is a link to the survey under the "Welcome" heading on the district's home page, according to Mark Donnelly, director of business services.

The school board agreed last month to , saying the district moves quickly, it can realize enough savings to avert the need for a new operating levy in a few years.

The plan hinges on consolidating  and  into one building and closing one elementary school, possibly by moving sixth-graders into the new middle school.

A consultant warned the that although the plan  was basically solid, there could be game-changing obstacles ahead -- like potential wetlands and size problems with the proposed site.

The 17 acres next to the , behind , includes , the consultant said.

Still, board members said now is the time to pursue the bond issue. Because other issues are being paid off, most property owners would see their taxes increase only $12 to $16 a year.

The six-question survey will run through 3 p.m. Thursday, May 13, Donnelly said.