Politics & Government

Steel Siding Sets Raintree Learning Community Back in Planning

Town and Country city leaders have some concerns over Raintree Learning Community's plan to use steel siding on the new school coming to a residential area.

Earler this month, the architectural review by the Town and Country Board of Alderman for the Raintree Learning Community was continued to the Jan. 14 meeting because it was also continued until January by the city's architectural review board.

Alderman Phil Behnen, who sits on the architectural review board, said the board had some concerns about the siding the school planned to use on the building.

"They're using a steel siding which we're just not familiar with that product in the city. We thought it looked more like an industrial product than a school," Behnen said. He said it's of particular concern because the school sits right in the middle of a residential area, although it cannot be seen by the road and most neighbors.

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Behnen said the architectural review board members need to look at other buildings with similar materials before making decisions on the siding.

"We're going to encourage them to make some changes," Behnen explained.

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"I voiced my opposition. Personally, I don't want that, what they're presenting," added Alderman Chuck Lenz who also sits on the architectural review board. 

"They use the same type of siding on Costo, only a different color," Lenz said. He said he believes some neighbors will be able to see it.

Alderman Skip Mange said he'd prefer to see the school use some rock or brick on its building.

"One of he points they made all the way through is that they want to be natural," Alderman Gussie Crawford stated, referring to the school's mission to be focused on the environment and provide nature-based learning to students. "Steel and aluminum is not natural."

Aldermen also said a public hearing will be held on the matter.

Read Previous Stories: 

New School Gets OK to Build in Town and Country

Raintree Learning Community: A Closer Look at The New School

No Property Taxes Proposed Again For Town and Country

New School May Move Into Town and Country

Resident Concerns Not Stopping New School From Moving Forward in Town and Country 


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