A Hempfield Area school director has backed off proposing changes that could have affected Hempfield Township's recreation programs.
Dr. Anthony Bompiani, who along with Kim Fait represents the board on the township's recreation commission, said last night he wants to work to improve communications between the district and the township.
Earlier Bompiani had complained that the district has too little say regarding decisions that affect township recreation programs, despite allowing the township to use its gyms and other facilities for some programs. Bompiani had suggested the district reconsider its relationship with the township and recently met with a committee made up of school administrators and other board members to review the district's recreation needs.
As a result of that meeting, and of informal talks with township Supervisor Bob Regola Jr. and township Manager Rob Ritson, Bompiani said he wants the two sides to continue working together to provide recreation programs.
"We need to keep doing business as usual," Bompiani said, pointing out that any shutdown of township recreation programs would hurt only the children who participate in them.
However, Bompiani said communications must improve. He said a meeting is planned with Regola and Ritson to address those concerns.
Michael Stewart, board president, said the district will work with the township to improve recreation facilities, but it also will proceed on its own, if necessary.
"Our doors are open," Stewart said. "We want to discuss recreation with the supervisors, but we have our own timetable to follow. We have to serve our district."
In an unrelated matter, Bill Deiter of P.J. Dick Inc. told the board that problems with a steel fabricator and subcontractor have delayed renovations at West Hempfield Middle School.
Deiter said the fabricator likely will not be able to deliver materials needed to complete an addition to the school. He said talks are under way with another manufacturer to provide the materials.
Deiter also said a concrete slab poured by a subcontractor was not installed properly and must be torn up and replaced.
The delays will not affect the start of school, said Superintendent Dr. Wayne Doyle.
