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RSU#13 officials present school-consolidation plan; Owls Head proposed for expanded elementary
Summary
RSU#13 officials presented a multi-phase consolidation plan recommending Oceanside High (9–12), a middle school in Thomaston, converting several elementary assignments and renovating or expanding Owls Head Central School; presenters said consolidation and energy upgrades could save hundreds of thousands annually.
Peter Orne, identified in the minutes as representing RSU#13, told the Selectmen the district is conducting a listening tour and presented recommendations intended to align facilities with projected enrollment and learning goals over the next 10–20 years. The plan’s goals include creating a high-performing system, efficient use of facilities, improved safety and comfort in schools, and maximizing resources.
The recommendations presented included designating Oceanside High School in Rockland for grades 9–12 and an Oceanside Middle School in Thomaston for grades 6–8; creating Pre-K–5 elementary assignments so that Cushing Community School would remain K–5 and Owls Head Central School would be renovated and expanded to become Pre-K–5; the plan listed Gilford Butler School, Lura Libby School and the Mclain office building as candidates for closure.
Finance and planning aspects were explained by district staff and consultants. Finance Director Peter Orne said projected savings come from energy and air-quality upgrades (estimated savings around $200,000 per year) and consolidation of buildings (estimated savings $250,000–$300,000 per year). Architect Jason Merriam and engineer Mark Sabatini reviewed Owls Head’s condition, noting the 1952 building has asbestos tiles, some exterior lead paint, single-phase electrical service and boiler/piping work needed; they said options under consideration ranged from renovation to rebuilding, and cautioned that “doing nothing can be costly too” because deferred maintenance will continue to generate expenses.
Selectmen asked about prior savings and enrollment changes. Loren Andrews said earlier consolidation phases have saved millions and noted that the RSU lost about 25 percent of its students following Saint George’s withdrawal; that departure reduced the district subsidy and explains, according to presenters, why tax or budget totals did not fall proportionally. The RSU said further public input meetings will be held (presenters expected the next meeting in September) and that conceptual drawings and cost estimates for renovating vs. building new at Owls Head will be brought to future meetings.
The Selectmen heard the presentation but took no formal vote on RSU recommendations; district representatives invited written questions and public feedback.
