To the editor:

Lindbergh Schools recently purchased the former Johnny’s Market property for $1.66 million.

The purpose of the purchase is to allow the Central Office currently at Lindbergh High School to move into that location at a cost of an additional $4 million. The remarks made by Lindbergh Superintendent Jim Simpson seem contradictory to the statements that he has made to Crestwood.

Per Dr. Simpson, “We hope the construction of the new building will spur other investors to move up and down that section of Gravois …”

Isn’t this the same message that Crestwood’s city leaders have expressed that the development of Crestwood Plaza/mall location will hope to spur and increase the redevelopment of the Watson Road corridor?

In addition, Dr. Simpson has expressed that Crestwood Plaza redevelopment should have “more cash registers.” The location of Sappington/Gravois is prime commercial property that is ripe for cash registers.

I wonder what St. Louis County thinks of taking away a prime revenue location of sales and property taxes?

Lindbergh Schools simply paid too much for a prime commercial property location.

There are several areas in the school district that were available at a lesser value for the taxpayers. Why not build the office building in what is now a play yard that was purchased at Long School? That would’ve saved the taxpayers close to $2 million-plus if you add in the demolition cost associated with the Johnny’s Market site.

Furthermore, you could utilize a portion of the building for classrooms in the event of enrollment concerns at Long School.