OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Marion County Public School Board is officially moving ahead with building a brand-new Lake Weir Middle School. But while progress is being made, questions remain about communication, environmental delays, and transparency.

At the March 25 meeting, the Marion County Public School Board unanimously approved Skanska USA as the construction manager for “School DD,” the replacement for the current Lake Weir Middle School. The vote was 5-0, though some board members voiced concerns.

Angela Usher, Director of Operations for Marion County Public Schools, presented the project. Skanska USA was selected after topping the scorecard in two separate evaluations, on February 19 and again on March 3.

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Environmental concerns have affected the project site. Gopher tortoises were found and are being relocated, and sand skinks were also discovered. A permit to address their habitat has been submitted. Because of this, an archaeological permit was also required, potentially delaying the timeline. However, the skinks don’t need to be removed—just accommodated with additional habitat.

The board was aware that archaeological and environmental concerns can alter construction timelines, said Dr. Allison Campbell, School Board Member for District 1.

“It’s really important that this project moves forward,” said Usher. “We’re trying to keep it as close as possible to schedule… the cost of construction is escalating.”

School Board Chair Lori Conrad supported the vote but emphasized the need for better communication moving forward.

“I feel that we should be doing a better job,” Conrad said. “Despite the district’s failure to adhere to our district’s established procedures… my decision is based solely on the direct impact this item has on our students here in Marion County.”

Conrad also criticized what she saw as a lack of transparency regarding a possible 10-month delay due to environmental issues.

“We must do better – our community and our children are depending on it,” she said.

Usher, with 30 years of experience, clarified that statutory requirements had been followed, and recordings were made when required. She said any significant changes to schedule or scope would be reported. “A 10-month delay – I’m not certain about that. We just said that was a possibility,” she stated.

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