Near North District School Board Chairman David Thompson, in a letter to the mayor and council dated Sept. 28th, is asking for co-operation in strategic and long-term planning.
The Board recently decided to consolidate its three high schools into two, with Widdifield now scheduled for closing.
"During the Accommodation Review Process a number of issues surfaced that made it clear that closer dialogue and cooperation between the NNDSB Trustees and North Bay City Council is required," Thompson writes. "Although we have differences, we have a lot in common when it comes to the desire to create a vibrant a safe place to live and learn for the residents of North Bay."
There has been some tension and differences of opinion over the past couple of years with Mayor Al McDonald wading into the school closing debate, even to the point of making a presentation, and Thompson responding that the school board needs students to keep schools open and it is up to council to attract more people to the city.
"A healthier relationship could provide both public organizations a chance to share ideas on current school facilities, potential partnerships with new city sports/community facilities and the leadership role City Council and NNDSB should play in creating a healthy environment for our youth and families.
"As well, it would be worth having a discussion on strategic/long term planning because it affects all of us. This would be an excellent opportunity for both the Board and Council to work together in strengthening our partnership and collective vision for our wonderful city," Thompson concludes.
