IBOA Says Bidding Process Is Too Restrictive(posted Oct 16) The Metropolitan School District of Pike Township School Board bid approval to lease 20 acres south of Snacks Elementary School has been determined to be too restrictive by the Indiana State Board of Accounts. The school corporation started accepting bids October 15. On Oct 15, Stan Mettler of the IBOA examined the bid notice, stating the bid is too restrictive by limiting it to non-profits that have at least seven facilities operating in Marion County and the contiguous counties. The bid requested leasing to be dedicated to the purpose of promoting the moral, physical, social and mental welfare of people through recreational and educational activities. Other bid stipulations required bidders to enter into a program agreement with the school corporation for a term of at least fifteen years in which the bidder would provide for various wellness, aquatic and education programs for all ages of the community. The building design must meet the school corporation's criteria and to begin within 24 months of the execution of the lease. There is also an option to purchase the land. Mettler explained the IBOA only audits schools every two years. He did not say when Pike is scheduled for an audit, but the checks and balances come from public scrutiny. On October 16, Mr. Raul Rivas, facilities director and school communication director did not return phones calls concerning the matter. |