Jeremy Ranch issues solidify the incompetency of the Park City School District

Sometimes it is hard to get things right. In the case of the Park City School District, sometimes is every time.

Frankly, it’s getting old covering the incompetence of the school district. I would like to write about something else. In the latest case, construction was paused on Jeremy Ranch Elementary School this week because the school district didn’t go through the correct process with Summit County Planning. This includes lack of a conditional use permit, lack of a stormwater pollution prevention permit, and other violations of county code.

I must note, a few years ago, I replaced a deck on my house. The contractor told me I probably didn’t need a permit. I figured it was my ass on the line, so I called the Summit County Planning office. They told me I needed a permit and what to do. So, I got one.

I know you are amazed. Yes, even a blogger in his basement, who couldn’t even win a primary election for school board, figured out he needed a building permit. If the basement blogger can figure it out, you have to wonder about the “professionals” who are paid over $400K at the school district.

Apparently, Superintendent Dr. Jill Gildea felt that the county regulations didn’t apply to her school district. Having followed Summit County planning director Pat Putt, and his lead, Peter Barnes, for over a decade, I know they are competent. If they say there are issues and provide the statutes, I trust their judgment. I can’t say the same for our school superintendent.

The truth is that our school district has a trust issue.

• First, we had the magic rock.
• Then out-of-district teachers with children were treated horribly.
• The Superintendent hasn’t agreed to be on KPCW since they questioned her handling of mask mandates last November.
• Other communication is almost nonexistent.
• If you bring up any negative issue to the board, the response you’ll likely get is acerbic.
• Teachers have left in droves.

The thing you have to ask yourself is, “What if they actually get a hard problem?” The only saving grace is our teachers. Yet, that goodwill will run out soon.