Evening Republican, Volume 17, Number 194, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 15 August 1913 — CONTRACT FOR SCHOOL HOUSE WAS NOT LET [ARTICLE]

CONTRACT FOR SCHOOL HOUSE WAS NOT LET

Bids All Exceeded Estimate and If Not Abandoned Erection Will Be Delayed.

The contract for the erection of the new high school building in Barkley township was not let Thursday, the bids all exceeding the estimate. County Superintendent Lamson was. accompanied to the scene of the proposed building by Attorney Leopold, Architect Robert M. Hyde and one or two bidders. The Estimated cost was $15,000. The bids were as follows: Hill & Stoltz, $21,963. E. M. Rent, $20,926. Snyder Bros., $20,549. J, M. Reed, $19.947. Wiley Bros., $15,942. Snyder Bros, were the only local bidders. It is reported that Wiley Bros, found after their bid had been opened that they were far too low, as they had not figured on the use of plate glass for which the specifications called. It is probable that the contract will be advertised again, but it is not probable that it can be let unless thp estimate is materially increased. It looks as though this new high school proposition was going to prove a mighty expensive luxury and that the cost of construction will raise taxes in townships affected very materially not only during the time the building is being paid for but for its upkeep and the employment of teachers. We have serious doubts if the number who will take advantage of it will ever justify the outlay. <