Now work begins to save money on jail
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County officials now have the means to finance the new jail construction. Their real work now begins as they finalize the building design.
The sales tax issue basically provides the maximum amount to be spent on the jail. It does not set the minimum nor does it mandate that all of the tax revenue has to be spent. Less can be spent and the tax would end earlier.
Every detail of the design must be reviewed and any unnecessary items removed. This includes the large items as well as the small $5 type items.
Everything must be questioned. Do we need this many cells? Can we use 36-inch ceiling fans instead of 54-inch? Do we need all the offices, conference rooms, recreation areas, storage areas, restrooms, lobby area, interrogation areas, etc.? Does each one really need to be this big?
How much are we spending on ?green? items? ?Green? items usually cost more than standard, and are they financially justified? Do we need this many electrical outlets? Is the parking area too large? Can the window sizes be reduced? Can we get by with lower-priced floor coverings? Is the lighting, inside and outside, excessive?
I assume the recreation room/lounge will have some gaming and video/sound equipment ?do we need all of it? Can the TV size be reduced?
Everything must be reviewed and cost reductions taken. We don?t want an inadequate and inefficient building, but we don?t want a luxury facility either.
Paul White
Mariob
KC parents can help solve day-care issues
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Monday, April 4, was the first time parents of children served by Kids Connection were informed of difficulties leading to the center?s closure. What a diverse group of parents it was! Some parents have professional degrees, some wear tattoos, some have up to four kids in KC, some parents are churched and some are not; but all demonstrate unwavering passion about the best interest of their young children.
I imagine a group with this much variety and commitment could solve any problem if given the chance.
The Hillsboro MB Church made it clear that they opened and supported the center by themselves, and alone have been unable to solve problems that have arisen.
Looking to the future, I suggest a team approach. Christ Jesus affirmed teamwork when he appointed 12 apostles to carry out his mission. My 3-year-old-son, who attends Kids Connection, can tell you all about the importance of teamwork, whether it be Bob the Builder, our weekly garbage collectors, construction sites, or within our family?teamwork with cooperation and a variety of skills are required to accomplish tasks.
Let?s show our children what teamwork can look like.
Let?s empower KC teachers to meet with HMBC Sunday school teachers for sharing space effectively.
Let?s empower KC parents to become center volunteers, bringing creativity and help where needed.
Let?s enlist kid-friendly Hillsboro businesses, churches and educators to form a community collaboration leading, directing, and supporting the new Kids Connec??tion sustaining its mission longterm?always remembering that children, teachers and parents are among Hillsboro?s greatest assets.
Kimberly Swaney
Hillsboro
