FAQs

Question	Answer
The initial proposal for the Ram Centre was the “Fieldhouse,” which was a completely public project. Why, when, and who proposed that the project be changed to include private for-profit businesses?	The initial two proposals, the small and large Fieldhouses, were primarily school facilities with the school being the main tenant. Due to the global economic decline and reduced school funding, the Ram Community Centre (RCC) sought other tenants, most of which are non-profit. In fact, the school is not even obligated to lease any of the RCC space, but may rent specific facilities from time to time as it deems appropriate. At present, the only committed for-profit tenant is a Physical Therapy group. The YMCA, Centre County Office of Aging, and Mt. Nittany Physicians Group are all non-profit organizations. The Penns Valley Medical Center has both for-profit and non-profit tenants. The Old Gregg School houses for-profit, non-profit, and government organizations. Numerous other community centers include a physical therapy, medical, and/or senior citizen centers in their facility.
How will the Ram Centre be funded?	The construction costs will be covered by a combination of charitable contributions, commercial rent, and financing. The RCC will cover on-going operational expenses and the debt service from the RCC tenant commercial rent payments. Any additional capital donations will be used for debt reduction, RCC improvements and expansions
How will the Ram Centre impact my taxes?	NO local school taxes will be used for The Ram Centre – either to build or operate it. RCC will realize some indirect taxes since Centre County Senior Center will pay rent and the Penns Valley Area School District will pay for any usage by the District. The Penns Valley Area School District will realize revenue from the Ram Centre by leasing the land, renting school facilities, and providing utilities and services to the building, for which they will be paid for by The Ram Centre. No school district funds will be used in the construction of The Ram Centre. All construction costs will be covered by charitable donations, commercial rent, and financing.
Why was the original plan for an indoor swimming pool scrapped? This is one resource that we do not currently have in the district. It could greatly enhance opportunities for year round swimming, instructional swim programs, and swim teams etc. Can this portion of the plan be revisited? Might there be more public support if it were added back in?	A number of items were eliminated with the down-sized, current RCC plan including an indoor track, a large wrestling facility, and a swimming pool among others. Pools are very expensive to build and maintain. Based upon input from the YMCA and other community centers visited, we opted to defer the pool option until the RCC/ YMCA have a few years of solid start-up performance. Pools are rarely self-sustaining based solely upon membership and usage. We have allowed space on the site plan for a possible pool expansion in the future. The more successful the capital campaign and the start-up of the RCC and YMCA is, the more likely the pool expansion will occur. Another issue is that indoor pools require significant heat for both air and water. However, there is an opportunity for the biomass plant to provide heat to the RCC at less than 50% of the cost of other heating options.
Is there a “Phase II”? I heard mention of a pool from Mrs. Wise. What is next and at what cost/risk?	Pools are very expensive to build and maintain. Based upon input from the YMCA and other community centers visited, we opted to defer the pool option until the RCC/ YMCA have a few years of solid start-up performance. Pools are rarely self-sustaining based solely upon membership and usage. We have allowed space on the site plan for a possible pool expansion in the future. The more successful the capital campaign and the start-up of the RCC and YMCA is, the more likely the pool expansion will occur. Another issue is that indoor pools require significant heat for both air and water. However, there is an opportunity for the biomass plant to provide heat to the RCC at less than 50% of the cost of other heating options.
What needs to happen to make the Ram Centre a reality?	The RCC must finalize the leases with the medical groups and raise the $1.5mm equity to secure the down payment for financing. The permits and bank financing are pretty well along. We have already received over $800K in donations and pledges towards our $1.5mm groundbreaking goal. The goal is to open the RCC before the end of 2012.
How does the Ram Centre benefit the school district?	The school district will, in fact, realize revenue from the project through land use payments as well as utility usage fees for existing water, sewer and heat provided to the RCC building. The district will also benefit from improved pedestrian access and additional income generated from grass cutting and parking lot maintenance of the area used by the RCC. The rental of PV school playing fields, gyms, and cafeteria by the RCC will also benefit the school district monetarily. We believe it makes sense to garner a more efficient use of existing infrastructure. PVSD students, staff and parents will have easy access to the broad services and facilities offered by the RCC.
As this is basically a private business enterprise with donated funds, 501c-3 why can’t the building be built somewhere other than on school district property?	The RCC could be located on other property, in fact several options were considered. The Tri-municipality park in Potter Twp.(on Brush Valley Rd just west of Centre Hall) was considered but ruled out due to lack of infrastructure and poor accessibility for the majority of PV citizens. Purchasing private land was considered, but there are no such options adjacent to the High school. If PVSD infrastructure can not be leveraged and the RCC has do its own site developments, it would add about $1mm to the projected costs. In addition, the financial and synergistic advantages to PVSD and RCC would be negated. The PVSD opted to lease the land to the RCC versus selling the land in order to maintain better control of the tenants and usage of the RCC.
How will the school make $60K/yr in revenues?	$ 52,526 for sewer, water, and bio-mass heating $ 8,800 for the land lease $ 10,000 for external maintenance by school (parking lots, sidewalks, and grounds keeping) $ 10,000 for business services provided by the school and the rental of any school facilities (gyms, field, cafeteria etc.)
Could you talk more about how the school could gain revenue through summer camps and activities which could happen at the RCC?	In addition to the revenue descrbied above, significant revenue could be realized by PVSD for rental of gyms, plying fields, cafeteria, etc from summer camps, off-season clinics, league play, etc. These activities could be for sports, arts, social, wellness and general recreational.
Will school taxes be lowered because of the additional revenue?	The revenue PVSD will realize from providing utlilties and services to the RCC will probably be used to offset some future tax increases.
PVSD – 52,000 revenue. Water, sewer, heat is this gross or net of expense increase?	This will be gross income. The real benefit to PVSD is the net of variable costs as it already abosrbs all of the overhead for these items.
Who determined the projected projected revenue foe the PVASD?	The Penns Valley business manager and RCC finance committee made a very conservative estimate for the yearly revenues. As you can see, totals could easily range from $$80-100K per year for the school.
What synergies will be negatively impacted by off-site location?	Synergies between our students and PV senior citizens, on site child care, before and after school YMCA programs and other YMCA managed activities. Access to onsite Physical Therapist and rehabitation facilities. The ability to run various camps and easily scalable community gathering places through shared resources will be diminished.
During construction, will any district or community athletic programs (games or practices) be adversely affected? If so, which ones? Who will cover the costs of moving games to other fields, etc.?	The RCC construction is not anticipated to disrupt any athletic activities.
What sports teams will be required to pay for using the facility. So far we heard that the wrestlers will need to pay for the privilege. What about the football team, basketball team, indoor softball, etc.?	All users must pay to use the facility and organizations affiliated with the school will have the first right of refusal between the hours of 3:00 and 6:00 P.M. daily during the school year.
Will PVSD be required to pay for use of facilities?	The school district has no obligation to utilize the RCC. The school district has first scheduling priority of the facility from 3:30pm to 6:30pm during the school year, and may elect to rent the RCC facilities at its discretion. Its only obligation is the land use agreement for the RCC site. The RCC restrooms are open to the public during the regular YMCA hours, which are extensive.
What guarantee is there that the school district will utilize the lease payment of approx. $60,000 to ADD resources for school students by renting the Ram Centre facilities for uses such as athletic practices, restrooms, locker rooms etc.?	The school district has no obligation to utilize the RCC. The school district has first scheduling priority of the facility from 3:30pm to 6:30pm during the school year, and may elect to rent the RCC facilities at its discretion. Its only obligation is the land use agreement for the RCC site. The RCC restrooms are open to the public during the regular YMCA hours, which are extensive.
What facilities does the school district plan to lease from the Ram Center and at what cost to the district?	The school district has no obligation to utilize the RCC. The school district has first scheduling priority of the facility from 3:30pm to 6:30pm during the school year, and may elect to rent the RCC facilities at its discretion. Its only obligation is the land use agreement for the RCC site. The RCC restrooms are open to the public during the regular YMCA hours, which are extensive.
Will the center supply the district with the needed weight room and wrestling room that it needs?	The PV high school moved its weight room from the crowded garage to a much larger shop classroom in 2011. The RCC will have a 3,000 sq ft weight and cardio area There will be a mat room of about 1500 sq ft. Both will be available for YMCA members and others for a fee.
Please clarify how sports teams will utilize the facility – it is my understanding they will have to pay.	The school district has no obligation to utilize the RCC. The school district has first scheduling priority of the facility from 3:30pm to 6:30pm during the school year, and may elect to rent the RCC facilities at its discretion. Its only obligation is the land use agreement for the RCC site. The RCC restrooms are open to the public during the regular YMCA hours, which are extensive.
Secondly it was clearly established in the beginning of this venture in 2007, that the district needed a proper weight room that was large enough to safely meet the NEEDS of all the school teams in and out of season, as well as the PE classes. It was so needed in fact, that it had even been housed in closets and small classrooms. If the public uses these facilities, then the school’s needs will be interrupted by the needs of the public. It was also established that there was a NEED for a dedicated wrestling room. The wrestling teams have been practicing in the school cafeteria for decades. In response, the Wrestling Club has been raising funds over the years in order to be able to contribute to such an endeavor. The wrestling room and weight room, however, are not in the Ram Cemtre’s plan. My second question is what happened to these two vital NEEDS of the district? Both NEEDS are being compromised and having the district lease space from the YMCA as a solution is not only inadequate; it will cost the district money.	The earlier versions of the RCC were based on the PVSD being the anchor tenant. The current RCC is not a school district facility - see #2 above.
How will admission to athletic events held on district fields at the high school be handled during construction and following the opening of the center?	Admission will be similar to its current practice, which is far from ideal. RCC visitors will probably adjust their schedules to avoid such congestion during those events, similar to how local residents adjust to PSU football game days.
Will the High School Principal or Superintendent be making statements?	The Penns Valley superintendent and the school board have drafted a joint statement that was publicly reviewed in the December 7 board meeting. It was printed in the CDT (Dec 14, 2011) and the PV website shortly thereafter.
What are the “under-utilized school facilities”?	PV School district assets that are utilized far below their capacity: • Athletic fields and gyms - especially during the summer months • Cafeteria - the vast majority of evenings, weekends, and the summer months • Sewer Plant – the school district must haul in sludge during the summer months to keep it viable • Water supply – the school uses less than 50% of their water supply year-round • Bio-mass heat supply – most efficient if used at full capacity versus reduced capacity • Parking lots – especially during non-school hours and during the summer
There are many underutilized buildings in eastern Centre Co, many of them struggle to survive financially, for example Aaronsburg Community Building, and the Old Gregg School. Why are we not investing in what we have rather than building more and paving more land?	The proposed RCC site leverages the largest collection of underutilized facilities in PV and would minimize paving and other development requried for the RCC.
The money would go further to rehabilitate existing buildings so why should a new building be constructed?	The return on investing in those existing buildings is much lower in terms of overall value to the communty. They are also less sustainable and not as centrally located.
How will the medical facilities be improved?	The Ram Community Centre will allow capacity to double the potential level of medical service to the Penns Valley community. It is believed that any open space at Penns Valley Medical Center will be occupied in an appropriate time frame.
Will there be a membership fee, or can I just pay on a daily basis?	As the managing partner, the YMCA has proposed the following fees: • Youth: $108/yr. or $12/mo. • Adult: $313/yr. or $29/mo. • Family: $503/yr. or $46/mo. • Single Parent Family: $386/yr. or $36/mo. • Senior: $245/yr. or $22/mo. • Senior Couple: $386/yr. or $36/mo. NOTE: All will pay a onetime $50 joining fee except youth, please see RCC for most current YMCA membership fee schedule.
What are the rates for Y memberships and day care?	Please refer to the YMCA s section on this site.
Are membership fees the same for every YMCA?	There will be local YMCA schedules with a supplemental fee if members opt to use other Centre County YMCA also. See current YMCA fee schedule posted on RCC site.
What are the anticipated non-subsidized fees for the YMCA? Daycare?	After School $50-75 Toddlers (Ages 1 &2) $175/week, Pre School (Ages 3-5) $155/week
What if I cannot afford the Y’s rates?	The YMCA does not turn anyone away. They have given out over $300,000 in assistance for those that cannot afford membership in Centre County.
Will the Ram Centre be available for community usage during school hours?	Yes - The Centre is being built primarily for community use. If a group or party wishes to utilize the facility during school hours, they will need to schedule a time with the YMCA. The rates are very modest and comparable to those of the school.
What Senior Centers will be closed when the Ram Centre facility opens?	The Centre Hall and the Millheim/Madisonburg centers will be closed. All of these groups have been involved with the RCC for months and are generally pleased with the opportunity. The Centre County Office of Aging is managing this transition well and presented that information at the public meeting. Centre County provides transportation as needed.
What will happen to the existing senior center in Madisonburg?	It will not be used as the Senior Center and the Seniors will meet at the Ram Centre
I am concerned about what will happen to the existing senior center facilities, and also the Old Gregg School Community Center. I fear as involvement in such locations is reduced, they will have a more difficult time keeping afloat. I also regret that all who attend programs at the RCC will be leaving their communities to do it. More traffice on Rt. 45. Will there be a stop light installed?	Please see other specific segments of FAQ for answers to these combined questions
Have you considered what impact the seniors might suffer with the closing (or consolidation) of the center and Aaronsburg senior centers?	The Office of Aging has met with all the Senior Centers in the area and the vast majority of the seniors are enthusiastic of consolidating into the Ram Centre
Regarding the senior center: How will 40-50 people be accommodated in the given space?	The Senior Center will have access to a multi-prurpose area as well to the YMCA and PV facilities (eg outdoor track).
Who will pay for the transportation to and from the center?	Centre County Office of Aging
Is a Capital Campaign goal of $4,500,000 realistic?	Yes - The goal is attainable if we are able to acquire volunteers to help advance campaign fundraising: "Friends give to Friends" and "Peers give to Peers". Volunteer participation will ensure community involvement, increasing the likelihood of a successful campaign. In addition, a strong Gifts-in-Kind phase will provide opportunities for participation beyond monetary support. A five-year pledge period is available to meet everyone's philanthropic endeavors.
There does not seem to be a clear consensus that the Ram Centre is needed or wanted at this time. I base this on the fact that fund-raising is significantly behind the stated goal of $1,500,000.00 by October 31st, 2011 and has barely raised over half of the needed funds, as stated on the Ram Centre webpage. Will there be a vote to continue or discontinue the Centre and how will the vote of the tax-paying citizens be counted?	Please understand that this plan was just initiated in January 2011. It has achieved remarkable progress in eleven short months. We missed an aggressive ground-breaking goal for two reasons: delays in the permitting process, and a slower contribution rate for the capital campaign. These were very aggressive goals and we continue to make good progress. We do not foresee any vote on this issue. There is no precedence for such. The Penns Valley Medical Center, Old Gregg School, and PV EMS were all established by committed groups of Penns Valley residents without major surveys or votes.
Is my gift to the Ram Centre Capital Campaign tax-deductible?	Yes - Your gift is tax-deductible. The Ram Club is registered as a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, meaning all contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
May I give a gift "In Memory Of" or "In Honor Of" a friend or loved one?	Yes - The Ram Centre Capital Campaign presents an excellent opportunity to give a gift "In Memory Of" or "In Honor Of" a loved one. Many parents, grandparents, and friends give a gift "In Honor Of" their children or grandchildren. It also is an excellent time to leave a legacy gift by "naming" a building or room to assure the family name will continue in perpetuity.
What is the exact status of signed agreements between the Ram Centre Board and all other entities?	There are executed leases with: • The Centre County YMCA (5 year + 5 year renewable) • The Centre County Office of Aging (for the Senior Center – 5yr + 5) • The Penns Valley School district (30 year land use agreement) • We have an executed Letter of Intent with Mt. Nittany Medical Center (10 yr. + 5). • We have a final draft in process with the Physical Therapy Group. Note : All of these were executed between July – Sept, 2011.
How did you come to the decision for PT dept. How many people interviewed? Should it not have been made public. Why not contact a facility (like ProCare) who have served the community for more than 12 years?	The RCC did not actively solicit tenants for the centre. We responded to those that expressed an early interest in participating in the project.
What will happen if any leasers pull out or goes out of business. Do you have other interest to take their place.	Yes, there are multiple medical centers (eg Geisinger, Hershey, other PT providers) that would be interested. Some community centers visited did not have a YMCA for their recreation activities and were self operated.
Does the Penns Valley School Board support The Ram Club Capital Campaign?	Yes - The Penns Valley School Board of Directors and Superintendent Brian Griffith support the Ram Centre Capital Campaign. In addition, they encourage donations and endorse the fundraising efforts of the Ram Club. The Ram Centre will own the building.
How is it possible that the Ram Centre will use no local tax dollars to build or operate the facility? According to your webpage you are approximately $696,000 from ground breaking and $3,696,000 completion. The webpage states that $400,000/per year in lease revenue will cover a “substantial portion of the building and operating costs.” Where will the remaining “portion” of building and operating costs come from? What bank is proposing to finance this project?	We do need to reach our initial capital campaign goal of $1.5mm in order to have enough down payment equity for the banks to grant our mortgage. The revenue from the leases will cover the RCC operating expense (estimated at $130,000 per year) and the 20 year mortgage payments at 3.9% interest rate. We have three interested banks that are excited about financing the RCC. They are Fulton Bank, Northwest Savings Bank, and SPEFCU credit union. We have not contacted others as a preliminary inquiry was just performed to verify feasibility. Any capital contributions beyond the $1.5mm will be used to pay down debt or expand the facility. The RCC is staffed strictly by volunteers.
What bank is the money coming from?	Several banks have expressed strong interest in participating, Fulton, Northwest, SPEFC to date.
What will the excess money raised go toward now and 20 years from now?	We do need to reach our initial capital campaign goal of $1.5mm in order to have enough down payment equity for the banks to grant our mortgage. The revenue from the leases will cover the RCC operating expense (estimated at $130,000 per year) and the 20 year mortgage payments at 3.9% interest rate. We have three interested banks that are excited about financing the RCC. They are Fulton Bank, Northwest Savings Bank, and SPEFCU credit union. We have not contacted others as a preliminary inquiry was just performed to verify feasibility. Any capital contributions beyond the $1.5mm will be used to pay down debt or expand the facility. The RCC is staffed strictly by volunteers.
On the surface it appears that the “good ole boy network” is in play with respect to the construction and operation of the project. How did the bidding work or can we still bid on pieces of the project?	The RCC is not bidding out the general contractor project, architect and site engirneering; however, our build team may bid out the subcontracted work. Our Build team -Nittany Engineering, Chris Kunes, and Jeff Fuller have not taken one dime to date, and they have committed to contribute over $500,000 in kind to the RCC project. Volunteers are accepted!
Did you put out for construction bids?	No - Although sub-contractor will have an opportunity to bid.
Has a business plan been developed?	The plan is basically complete but has not been formalized for public viewing, pending finalization of lease and mortgage terms.
What is the amount of rent the Ram Centre will pay the school?	The Ram Centre will pay $8800/year plus an annual CPI escalator.
Mentioned during the presentation was the early leasing fee pd to school. What will the yrly increase be?	Refer to the lease agreement under the Ram Club area on this site.
Who determined fair market value and what was the basis of the decision?	Chris Aumiller - Certified Appraiser
What are the legal and insurance ramifications of placing a private, for-profit business on public ground? Will the school district/taxpayers be opening themselves up for lawsuits if an accident occurs at one of these businesses?	The RCC must provide indemnification per the lease with the School. The RCC has a specific rider on their insurance policy to cover this. In addition, all RCC tenants must provide these same indemnifications and insurance coverage. The RCC land use agreement with the Penns Valley school district is posted on the school website.
Who are the members of the Ram Centre Board of Directors? How are they appointed/elected? What is their term of office? How is the Ram Centre Board affiliated with the PVHS Alumni Assoc. and the School Board?	The RCC board of directors: • President - Allan Darr • Vice president - Mike Culver • Secretary Gary Stine • Treasurer Chris Houser • Martin Tobias • Jef Wall. They are all volunteers appointed and approved by the Ram Club. We are actively recruiting a 7th board member. Their term is 4 years. The Ram Centre, PV Alumni Assoc., and PV Endowment fund are all separate, non-profit organizations under the Ram Club (also a non-profit). The school board is an official state government agency not directly affiliated with the Ram Club or any of the Ram Club organizations.
Where is cost for overall management services and who will oversee?	The anticipated professional fees for legal and accounting services are $10,000/yr and report to the RCC board.
Where are the salaries for employees of the facility?	The RCC will have no employees, custodial, maintenance and professional services will be contracted.
The heating for the Ram Centre is proposed to be supplied by the Penns Valley High School. Why should the school be responsible for supplying heat to private companies? How will it be determined exactly how much heating are being used by the tenants businesses so that they can be billed accordingly and will this bill include the previously mentioned additional wear-and-tear to the new heating system?	The Biomass usage by the RCC will be metered and paid at a rate to include variable and overhead costs (amortization, maintenance, etc.). It will be the same for the sewer and water purchased from the school by the RCC. The PV school already sells sewer services to the Penns Valley Health and Welfare tenants. This helps the school defray capital costs as the student population declines and improves efficiencies. The biomass furnace is much more efficient when running closer to full capacity. The PV School sewer system currently has to haul in sludge in the summer months to keep the plant viable since it is operating at very low rates in the summer months. The RCC usage should offset that issue during its busy summer months.
Why are these private businesses, if there is a need for them in Penns Valley, not purchasing private land and building their own facilities?	Only one of the proposed tenants is a private business - the Physical Therapy group. The rest are non-profit or Centre County government organizations. The RCC is paying the school district market rates for the property as per a certified appraiser. The RCC did consider other land options. For example, The Tri-municipality Park in Potter Township (off of Brush Valley Rd - West of Centre Hall) which was deemed too inaccessible and lacked the infrastructure.
If it is truly a community center and being built on public land, why are private for-profit businesses being placed within it?	See above. Also, it is not unusual for that to happen. The Penns Valley Health and Welfare facility is occupied predominantly by for-profit, medical-related private practices. The Old Gregg School is occupied by government, non-profit, and for profit organizations
How many of the facilities you visited were on school property?	None of the community center visited were directly on school property, but several were adjacent to schools. The Welch pool is a local example of a communty facility on State College school property
Mr. Griffith made it sound like Beaver Spring Building is on school property. I do not think it is.	You are correct, it's a stand alone facility.
Are any of the established (centers) facilities visited by your group on school property? Springs facility mentioned during your presentation on school ground?	No - But it should be noted there are community owned facilities on school property in this area, such as Welch Pool and Park Forest Pool.
Has the school district ever leased ground to a third party?	Penns Valley schools have a long history of similar transactions --- Centre Hall Library has a 99 yr lease from PV for $1/year (circa 1995), the Old Gregg School was sold to Gregg Township, the one room school house was moved to a one acre lot sold to Miles Township to use for historical purposes, and PV schools sell sewer capacity to the PV Health and Welfare Association Facility adjacent to the High school. Several of the community centers visited were adjacent to school grounds.
You still have not answered the ? as to why it must be on school property. It should be on purchased ground not leased from the school. Bad traffic congestion	The RCC could be located on other property, in fact several options were considered. The Tri-municipality park in Potter Twp.(on Brush Valley Rd just west of Centre Hall) was considered but ruled out due to lack of infrastructure and poor accessibility for the majority of PV citizens. Purchasing private land was considered, but there are no such options adjacent to the High school. If PVSD infrastructure can not be leveraged and the RCC has do its own site developments, it would add about $1mm to the projected costs. In addition, the financial and synergistic advantages to PVSD and RCC would be negated. The PVSD opted to lease the land to the RCC versus selling the land in order to maintain better control of the tenants and usage of the RCC.
Is there any other YMCA build on school ground if not why, was Mill Creek YMCA that you talked about, built on school ground, you did not say great idea not on school ground, tax payer concern in the future.	The RCC could be located on other property, in fact several options were considered. The Tri-municipality park in Potter Twp.(on Brush Valley Rd just west of Centre Hall) was considered but ruled out due to lack of infrastructure and poor accessibility for the majority of PV citizens. Purchasing private land was considered, but there are no such options adjacent to the High school. If PVSD infrastructure can not be leveraged and the RCC has do its own site developments, it would add about $1mm to the projected costs. In addition, the financial and synergistic advantages to PVSD and RCC would be negated. The PVSD opted to lease the land to the RCC versus selling the land in order to maintain better control of the tenants and usage of the RCC.
If the for-profit businesses decide that it is not profitable to remain at the Ram Centre and pull out, whom or what will cover the “believed” revenue that these businesses were to pay? Will the for-profit businesses be made to sign an extended lease, one that would require they stay in the building until it is completely paid for, 20-years as stated on your website?	All the tenants are signing long term leases (5-10 yr) with extension options. There are severe penalties for early termination. The community centers that we visited all grew and expanded several times as they matured, even in this depressed economy. Given the types of tenants selected, it is very improbable that the RCC would be abandoned. If there is a default, the school is well protected by its lease to the RCC and the RCC creditors would have the liability.
In the case of a default by the RCC, what control would the school district have over activities of subsequent tenants?	PVSD has total control of the allowed uses for the RCC through the land use agreement (posted on PVSD website).
Is there any possibility, ANY that PV taxpayers could be on the hook via higher taxes for this project?	Only if the RCC were to default and the PVSD opted to purchase the facility.
The structure of the Ram Club project has created a never ending business venture, directly placing the Ram Club in the role as landlords. A large part of the success of this endeavor relies on the revenue generated by its tenants. As residents of this valley, everyone here know all too well how often businesses fail and many buildings stand empty with no tenants. Furthermore, leases don’t last forever. So I ask, when a tenant moves out what contingency plan is set in place to keep the RCC sustainable so that it does not succumb to this familiar fate? What will prevent it from becoming another building that stands empty and reverts back to a financial responsibility of the district or worse it reverts back to the lienholder or bank that finances the project?	The earlier versions of the RCC were based on the PVSD being the anchor tenant. The current RCC is not a school district facility - see #2 above.
What will each of the partners (YMCA, Ram Centre Board, and School Board) have responsibility for and authority over (i.e. programming, usage, finances, etc.)?	The RCC is the developer and owner of the facility. The RCC has all fiscal and legal liabilities for the facility. Tenant leases require indemnification and insurance coverage for the RCC. The tenants are liable for the operations within their leased space. The Penns Valley school district is obligated to honor the Land Use agreement with the RCC (posted on school website). The PV school board must review and approve any uses outside those described in the Land Use agreement as well as some other items described therein. The Land Use agreement requires adequate indemnification and insurance coverage from the RCC for the school district. The YMCA will lease and manage the recreation portion and day care of the RCC. All rentals of the recreation facilities will be managed by the YMCA in accordance with RCC and PV guidelines. The YMCA, Mt. Nittany Medical Center, the Senior Center, and the Physical Therapy Group are all tenants with leases through the RCC. As such, each will have ordinary and customary responsibilities as tenants and must comply with RCC and PV regulations (clearances, non-smoking, etc.).
Will the Ram Centre charge for class rooms used by the school and if so what will the fee be?	RCC multi-purpose areas projected fees are about $10-20/hr
Is there no Ram Club staff to oversee the bldg?	Strictly a voluntary board.
Is there any provision for community organizations to have meeting space in the center?	RCC multi-purpose areas projected fees are about $10-20/hr
With the Ram Centre in place it would remove the need for several small businesses that have already moved into the area to fill a needed gap; for example, the Old Gregg School, the Millheim Swimming Pool, Sense of Balance Pilates, and Transfittness Personal Training. Why should taxpayer property be used to take clients/money out of their hands?	The RCC will enhance several of the local organizations that you mentioned like the Millheim Pool and the Old Gregg School. When the RCC is hosting various camps or other activities, the Old Gregg School will have opportunities to provide additional capacity for those events. We've already had a few inquiries for the RCC that we have forwarded to the Old Gregg School. If the RCC is expanded in the future to include an indoor pool, it will stimulate the swimming activity levels in Penns Valley and the Millheim pool should see those folks in the summer months. I cannot comment on the others, but expect that the RCC will not have a major effect on them. There will always be a demand for smaller, more individual programs.
As a member of the Old Gregg School Board, I’m very concerned if the Ram Centre will put our fitness instructors out of business. Have you considered the impact on existing facilities in the area from competition from proposed facilities in the Ram Center? Examples are: • Gregg School building • Fitness center • Youth center • Exercise classes • Personal training facility off Shook Hollow Rd. (Transfittness) • Existing PT facility in Old Fort (ProCare) You say 40 jobs will be created. What about jobs that would be lost from this Ram center There are already fitness facilities, day care centers in this area.	The YMCA analysis projects a target market penetration of 6 % of the PV population based upon their collective experience and knowledge of serving rural areas in the USA for decades. They also project 35 day care children at the YMCA. These are projections are each a small minority of the PV population and should have minimal impact on other similar services. The State College YMCA is 5x the size of the RCC/PV YMCA and there are still many similar scuccesful services in the Centre region despite the presence of the PSU facilities as well. There are a number of PV families that currently are members of other YMCA who will probably use the PV YMCA as their base.
Haven’t you scrapped the Old Gregg School that could have housed these tenants?	The YMCA had considered the OGS several years ago, but felt it was not a good fit. The OGS had every opportunity to approach these same tenants years before the current RCC concept evolved in 2011.
Will PV Medical center be shut down?	No, in fact the other tenants may expand to fill the area vacated by Mt. Nittany Medical Ctr.
How will the Ram Centre affect existing PV community centers in Gregg Township, Aaronsburg, Madisonburg?	The expected YMCA market penetration is 6% of the PV population and 35 day care children. That leaves signifcant market opportunity for the other centers.
Clarify how the Ram Centre will bring 40 additional jobs to the Valley.	• YMCA – 24 jobs • MNMC – 25 jobs (their preliminary estimate) • Senior Center - 1 FT • Physical Therapy – 2 jobs Total – 52…Mt Nittany Medical already provides for about 12 jobs at the PV Medical Center, thus an estimated net of 40 jobs.
What are the 40 jobs to be brought to Penns Valley?	• YMCA – 24 jobs • MNMC – 25 jobs (their preliminary estimate) • Senior Center - 1 FT • Physical Therapy – 2 jobs Total – 52…Mt Nittany Medical already provides for about 12 jobs at the PV Medical Center, thus an estimated net of 40 jobs.
Will there need to be a stop light at the intersection of Rt. 45 and what other improvements are needed for Ram Challenge Drive?	PennDOT has determined that the Ram Challenge Drive intersection will continue to be a low volume intersection and will not need a turning lane or traffic light. Regarding concerns about pedestrians crossing Ram Challenge Drive, a joint effort with Penns Valley School District will implement numerous safeguards. (speed tables, designated crosswalks, sidewalks, etc.). Ram Community Centre architects are addressing the capacity and lighting issues of the parking lots. A RCC safety and security committee has been formed to further address these concerns. An ad in the Jan. 2012 Valley Vine and on the RCC is soliciting additional input for the committee.
Traffic – how will kids safety be insured w/increase traffic flow?	PennDOT has determined that the Ram Challenge Drive intersection will continue to be a low volume intersection and will not need a turning lane or traffic light. Regarding concerns about pedestrians crossing Ram Challenge Drive, a joint effort with Penns Valley School District will implement numerous safeguards. (speed tables, designated crosswalks, sidewalks, etc.). Ram Community Centre architects are addressing the capacity and lighting issues of the parking lots. A RCC safety and security committee has been formed to further address these concerns. An ad in the Jan. 2012 Valley Vine and on the RCC is soliciting additional input for the committee.
What is the expected usage rate and how have you calculated traffic impact	PennDOT has determined that the Ram Challenge Drive intersection will continue to be a low volume intersection and will not need a turning lane or traffic light. Regarding concerns about pedestrians crossing Ram Challenge Drive, a joint effort with Penns Valley School District will implement numerous safeguards. (speed tables, designated crosswalks, sidewalks, etc.). Ram Community Centre architects are addressing the capacity and lighting issues of the parking lots. A RCC safety and security committee has been formed to further address these concerns. An ad in the Jan. 2012 Valley Vine and on the RCC is soliciting additional input for the committee.
Who will pay for the needed improvements around the school due to the increased traffic to the Ram Centre, specifically the speed tables, designated cross-walks, sidewalks, etc.?	The improvement and maintenance costs of the shared assets will be divided by the Penns Valley School and RCC. These include the access road, the north parking lot, and other improvements made to Ram Challenge Drive. These improvements need to been done regardless of the presence of the Ram Centre. RCC participation offsets costs that would normally be absorbed completely by the PVSD.
On the Ram Centre webpage it states that clearances are required by all tenants of the Ram Centre, however what about all the users of the Ram Centre? Will members of the YMCA and patients of the proposed medical facility and senior center be required to have said clearances? YMCA members using the facility, patients and seniors will come into contact with the children in their coming and going from the facility. What are you doing to ensure the students’ security?	Clearances for visitors/guests of the RCC are the same as those entering the school or its other facilities. All occupied areas in the RCC are supervised by the tenant for that space. The clearances for tenant employees are as strict or more strict than those required for school employees.
If private businesses are using the building, how will background checks required by law be enforced?	Clearances for visitors/guests of the RCC are the same as those entering the school or its other facilities. All occupied areas in the RCC are supervised by the tenant for that space. The clearances for tenant employees are as strict or more strict than those required for school employees.
Have you considered the safety of the student population? The Ram Centre will be open to a great many people with no security clearance. Since the Ram Centre will be on school property, this allows easy access to students by potentially dangerous people.	A RCC safety and security committee has been formed to further address these concerns. An ad in the Jan. 2012 Valley Vine and on the RCC is soliciting additional input for the committee.
How will required criminal background checks be handled as the school and community populations mix at the center?	Clearances for visitors/guests of the RCC are the same as those entering the school or its other facilities. All occupied areas in the RCC are supervised by the tenant for that space. The clearances for tenant employees are as strict or more strict than those required for school employees.
What additional safeguards (e.g. security cameras, speed bumps, etc.) will the school put in place to increase the safety and security of our school children?	PennDOT has determined that the Ram Challenge Drive intersection will continue to be a low volume intersection and will not need a turning lane or traffic light. Regarding concerns about pedestrians crossing Ram Challenge Drive, a joint effort with Penns Valley School District will implement numerous safeguards. (speed tables, designated crosswalks, sidewalks, etc.). Ram Community Centre architects are addressing the capacity and lighting issues of the parking lots. A RCC safety and security committee has been formed to further address these concerns. An ad in the Jan. 2012 Valley Vine and on the RCC is soliciting additional input for the committee.
Is a Capital Campaign goal of $4,500,000 realistic?	Yes - The goal is attainable if we are able to acquire volunteers to help advance campaign fundraising. "Friends give to Friends" and "Peers give to Peers". Volunteer participation will ensure community involvement, increasing the likelihood of a successful Campaign. In addition, a strong Gifts-in-Kind phase will provide opportunities for participation beyond monetary support. A five-year pledge period is available to meet everyone's philanthropic endeavors.
Is my gift to The Ram Centre Capital Campaign tax-deductible?	Yes - your gift is tax-deductible. The Ram Club is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, meaning all contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
May I give a gift "In Memory Of" or "In Honor Of" a friend or loved one?	Yes - The Ram Centre Capital Campaign presents an excellent opportunity to give a gift "In Memory Of" or "In Honor Of" a loved one. Many parents, grandparents and friends give a gift "In Honor Of" their children or grandchildren. It also is an excellent time to leave a legacy gift by "naming" a building or room to assure the family name will continue in perpetuity.
Does the Penns Valley School Board support The Ram Club Capital Campaign?	Yes -The Penns Valley School Board of Directors and Superintendent Brian Griffith have pledged full support to The Ram Centre Capital Campaign. In addition, they encourage donations and endorse the fundraising efforts of The Ram Club. The Ram Centre will own the building.
Has a business plan been developed?	Most of the components are in place, although the formal plan will not be finalized until all leases and the mortgage are executed.
Will there be any collaboration with other community organizations?	Yes - There will be a medical facility, a physical therapy practice, a senior center, a childcare center and alternative education programs. The YMCA of Centre County will operate the building and offer wellness programs, summer camps and other activities.
Will The Ram Centre be available for community usage during school hours?	Yes - The Centre is being built primarily for community use. If the District wishes to utilize the facility during school hours, they will need to schedule and compensate the Ram Centre accordingly.
How will The Ram Centre be funded?	The construction costs will be covered by a combination of charitable contributions, commercial rent and financing. The YMCA operating budget and commercial rent will cover on-going operational expenses.
How will The Ram Centre impact my taxes?	NO local taxes will be used for The Ram Centre – either to build or operate it. The Centre County Senior Centre will pay rent and the Penns Valley Area School District will pay for any usage by the District. Penns Valley Area School District will realize revenue from The Ram Centre by leasing the land, renting school facilities, providing utilities and services to The Ram Centre, for which they will be paid by The Ram Centre. No school district funds will be used in the construction of The Ram Centre. As stated above, all construction costs will be covered by charitable donations, commercial rent and financing.
What about facility paying taxes	Non - profit organizations do not pay real estate taxes in Pa. EIT taxes will be realized from the RCC tenant employee that live in PV.
What is the organizational structure of The Ram Club?	The RCC is an independent non-profit legal entity. The Board of Directors for The Ram Club will oversee the financial, the administrational, and the operational needs of three entities inclusive of The Ram Centre, Penns Valley Alumni Association and the Penns Valley Endowment Fund. In addition, there will be a Ram Centre build team with members Jeff Fuller from Fuller Architects, Bob Decker from Nittany Engineering and Associates, Inc., and Chris Kunes from Chris Kunes General Contractor, LP.
Who will be responsible for maintenance of the Centre?	The Ram Centre will contract with the Penns Valley Area School District and other local contractors, as appropriate.
What effect will the facility have with vehicles entering or exiting Route 45?	PennDOT has determined that the Ram Challenge Drive intersection will continue to be a low volume intersection and will not need a turning lane or traffic light. And engineering study was conducted.
Was a traffic study done (for access on/off of Rt. 45?)	Yes - The gravity study was performed for the Penn DOT by a certified engineer and paid for by the Ram Centre
How will we protect pedestrians crossing Ram Challenge Drive?	A joint effort with Penns Valley School District will implement numerous safeguards. (speed tables, designated crosswalks, sidewalks, etc.).
Is the North Parking Lot suitable to support the Ram Community Centre?	Ram Community Centre architects are addressing the capacity and lighting issues of the parking lots.
Is the power pole a hazzard for people exiting the school property onto route 45?	Current pole location at the entrance to Ram Challenge Drive meets all government criteria – will address, if possible, as utilities are tied to Ram Community Centre.
Can the Ram Centre be accessed via Green Grove Road?	In regards to a west side access road via Green Grove Road, neither the School District or Ram Community Centre own this property and it is unknown if it could be purchased. The area is prone to sink holes. Additional costs for land and improvements could exceed $1mm.
	The Ram Community Centre and its tenants must provide liability insurance coverage and indemnification for Penns Valley School District. PennDOT has determined that the proposed use of Ram Challenge Drive is adequate as is. Historic auto accident records indicate the Green Grove has had more accidents than all school roadway combined.
Since you have PVSD board members on the Ram Centre Board, is there a legal separation between PVSD and the Ram Centre should a lawsuit be filed against RCC?	The RCC is the developer and owner of the facility. The RCC has all fiscal and legal liabilities for the facility. Tenant leases require indemnification and insurance coverage for the RCC. The tenants are liable for the operations within their leased space. The Penns Valley school district is obligated to honor the Land Use agreement with the RCC (posted on school website). The PV school board must review and approve any uses outside those described in the Land Use agreement as well as some other items described therein. The Land Use agreement requires adequate indemnification and insurance coverage from the RCC for the school district. The YMCA will lease and manage the recreation portion and day care of the RCC. All rentals of the recreation facilities will be managed by the YMCA in accordance with RCC and PV guidelines. The YMCA, Mt. Nittany Medical Center, the Senior Center, and the Physical Therapy Group are all tenants with leases through the RCC. As such, each will have ordinary and customary responsibilities as tenants and must comply with RCC and PV regulations (clearances, non-smoking, etc.).
If the prospective tenants for the Community Center were to leave and no new tenants were found then would Penns Valley tax payer money be used to keep the center operating?	The tenants have 5-10 year leases (staggered) with 5 year lease extension options. The larger tenants will have significant leasehold improvements (Hundreds of thousands of dollars) and therefore have a vested interest in staying on long term. However, if all tenants left and no new tenants were obtained, the center could run by hiring our own staff, similar to the Lions Den in McAllitsterville and the Bever Springs Center. Additionally, the PV school district has no legal or fiscal obligation to the RCC other than leasing the land to the RCC. If the RCC would completely default, then the liability would rest entirely with the RCC creditors (banks).
Since the project would be on school property, what is the insurance liability to the school system? For example: If someone was to get hurt while working out in the YMCA, is the school system liable?	The Land Use contract between the school and the RCC requires indemnification of the school and adequate RCC insurance coverage for the school. Additionally, the RCC tenants must provide the same coverage to the RCC. You may view the Land Use contract as it is posted on the PV school district website.
Who is responsible if a PV student is injured?	The RCC is the developer and owner of the facility. The RCC has all fiscal and legal liabilities for the facility. Tenant leases require indemnification and insurance coverage for the RCC. The tenants are liable for the operations within their leased space. The Penns Valley school district is obligated to honor the Land Use agreement with the RCC (posted on school website). The PV school board must review and approve any uses outside those described in the Land Use agreement as well as some other items described therein. The Land Use agreement requires adequate indemnification and insurance coverage from the RCC for the school district. The YMCA will lease and manage the recreation portion and day care of the RCC. All rentals of the recreation facilities will be managed by the YMCA in accordance with RCC and PV guidelines. The YMCA, Mt. Nittany Medical Center, the Senior Center, and the Physical Therapy Group are all tenants with leases through the RCC. As such, each will have ordinary and customary responsibilities as tenants and must comply with RCC and PV regulations (clearances, non-smoking, etc.).
If the Community Center is run by all volunteers then who is over seeing the volunteers and what requirements do the volunteers need to meet in order to work at the Community Center?	The RCC volunteer board directs the RCC facility, but the day to day opertation is controlled by the tenants - YMCA, Sr Center, Medical Center, etc. The RCC board will contract services from PV schools and local firms for bookeeping, maintenance, janitorial and groundskeeping. All tenant empolyees have clearances as tight or tighter than PV school requirements.
When we toured the joint BioMass facility a few months ago, Brian Griffith noted that that facility had been overbuilt¬ to the degree that it could accommodate the heating needs of the Ram Community Centre. Was that facility (and the funding for it – tax dollars, grant monies, etc.) intended to heat a private facility such as the RCC? OR are those grants designed (and were they awarded) because Penns Valley is a public school?	Per Brian Griffith "I can assure you that I never said the biomass facility was overbuilt. I did share that the furnace had enough capacity to accommodate the RCC. The grant money was allocated to the school district for the construction of an economical/environmentally friendly heating option. If you recall, we also discussed selling heat to the medical center. We did bid a larger boiler, but chose to approve the smaller boiler that was subsequently downsized because of regulation concerns."
Does the construction of the center endanger future expansion of the high school if needed?	No, it is complementary with the PVSD facilities plan.
Is Ram Centre building subject to real estate tax?	No - Since it's Non-Profit
I’m Ronald Fetzer, member of the Board of Directors for the Penns Valley Area Health and Welfare Asso. Question: Why a Medical Center which is in conflict with the PVAH&WA (a non-profit community organization) which goals and purpose is to provide primary health care for the residents of our area.	Medical Center questions to be answered when MNMC finalizes their needs study in early 2012.
How will your medical facility provide more local care without sending people to Mt.Nittany?	Medical Center questions to be answered when MNMC finalizes their needs study in early 2012.
What will happen to the local businesses? Such as the pharmacy, medical center, etc.	Medical Center questions to be answered when MNMC finalizes their needs study in early 2012.
You are providing 10,000 sf for Mt. Nittany Physicians Group. Who is paying to build that area to their specifications?	MNMC will pay for the lease and leasehold improvements.
Why isn’t the Mt. Nittany Med Center going to be involved in the existing med center?	Medical Center questions to be answered when MNMC finalizes their needs study in early 2012.
What if anything will happen to the existing pharmacy?	The pharmacy should see increased volume due to the expanded medical facilities
Is a new pharmacy in the medical center planned?	No
Al mentioned that this will afford better medical facilities exactly how?	Medical Center questions to be answered when MNMC finalizes their needs study in early 2012.
What are the medical specialists coming to PV?	Medical Center questions to be answered when MNMC finalizes their needs study in early 2012.
The new center is proposed to house a YMCA that includes a day care center. There have been previous businesses in PV that have failed in their attempts to provide exercise and day care facilities. I don’t believe a significant amount of PV residents West of Spring Mills will utilize these facilities. Therefore my first question is what research has been done to address this concern, and what data from this research supports the NEED of these enterprises?	The YMCA analysis projects a target market penetration of 6 % of the PV population based upon their collective experience and knowledge of serving rural areas in the USA for decades.
Could you speak to how the RCC would create a destination within PV vs. PV residents traveling to engage in the activities? What will now exist within PV?	Currently, many PV youth travel to the Philipsburg and Burnham YMCA and The Summit in Altoona for basketball league play. We would have more available gyms than any other community rec center in Central Pa. Soccer fields and a potential future pool would add to that as many other PV youth travel for soccer leagues and swimming.
Why does the YMCA not look into putting programs into the school in Spring Mills	The RCC may offer overflow activities to the OGS
What types of activities and camps do you anticipate?	In addition to basketball and soccer , wrestling & sofball clinics/ camps could take advantage of the combined RCC/ PVSD facilities.
What would be the monthly lease amt for YMCA and medical center?	Those specific leases will not be disclosed until all are executed.
Would the members of the school board consider rescinding their votes?	No, the Board and PV administration has issued a support statement that is posted on the PVSD website.
Why didn’t public get to vote on project.	The precedent for PVSD and other districts is to use school facilities for broader service to the community. For example, Centre Hall library has a 99 year lease from the PVSD.
Was a public survey of needs conducted?	Yes, the Ram Club mailed surveys to over 600 PV citizens. The RCC also benefited from a survey done for the Centre County Community Foundation and the demographic knowledge from the YMCA.
Was the PV visioning process involved? Consulted?	Several major supporters of the RCC were very invloved in the PV visioning process.
There are many concerns about his facility. One major concern being that it will be built on school property. According to statistics 9 – 13% of return from a survey is average. What about your 10% returned survey made you think people other than your closest friends lead you to believe that people in PV wanted this center?	The Centre County Community Foundation survey in 2007 identfied the top need in PV as activites and development for PV Youth.
Why were only 620 surveys sent out, what about to all residents, not a “select few”	The Ram Club invested about $10,000 in that survey. A survey of over 10,000 PV residents would be prohibitive in cost.
How will our children be kept safe from adults who may not be able to be around children?	A RCC safety and security committee has been formed to further address these concerns. An ad in the Jan. 2012 Valley Vine and on the RCC is soliciting additional input for the committee.
I am Hunter a gun on school grounds? Going for medical care? Someone is hit crossing road who will be sued?	The Land Use contract between the school and the RCC requires indemnification of the school and adequate RCC insurance coverage for the school. Additionally, the RCC tenants must provide the same coverage to the RCC. You may view the Land Use contract as it is posted on the PV school district website.
How is a convicted sexual predator handled if they use the doctor’s office or Y for that matter?	RCC policy will be consistent with PVSD practice and Penna law.
If someone coming to the doctors office has a weapon in their vehicle and it gets broken into by a student and they go into (god forbid) a shooting spree, who’s problem is that? And don’t say the person who owns the weapon.	The Land Use contract between the school and the RCC requires indemnification of the school and adequate RCC insurance coverage for the school. Additionally, the RCC tenants must provide the same coverage to the RCC. You may view the Land Use contract as it is posted on the PV school district website.
Is a “big box” athletic facility really needed in rural PV? Where is the basis for this need?	The Centre County Community Foundation survey in 2007 identfied the top need in PV as activites and development for PV Youth.
How do you see this helping our youth sports programs? Especially their travel and participation in Central PA?	The combined RCC/ PVSD facilites will offer significantly more than any other such center in central PA
How do you see this helping our youth sports programs? Especially their travel and participation in Central PA? • P.O. & Burnham YMCA is a current destination for basketball • Bellefonte YMCA is a destination for other activities. • There is currently over 200 families w/kids in youth sports 3-6th grade.	The combined RCC/ PVSD facilites will offer significantly more than any other such center in central PA
Why is it the “Ram” CC if it is not part of the school? Why not “Penns Valley Health and Fitness Center”	That was discussed at length. PVSD is comprised of three main valleys - Penn, Brush and Georges Valley. We wanted a name that encompassed the whole region. The "Lions Den" community center in McAllisterville also inspired us for a short, mascot type name.
Why is there not an indoor track included in the plans? Seniors would benefit in the winter with an indoor track.	There will be a walking path around the perimeter of the gym as well as the hallways of the YMCA. The outdoor track is close at hand during good weather.
Have you done any core samples on the proposed site? Unexpected soil conditions (rock) are typically the largest source of unexpected cost increases	They are underway and will be completed by Jan. 2012.
What about rest rooms? Total of 3 stall for women and 3 for men?	That is much more than the current porta-potty capacity.
Take a vote on it…don’t assume we all want this.	PVSD has numerous examples of leases or donated lands for various community projects.
Who are the major financial donors?	Many of the donors were collectively recognized at football games this fall. Some of the major donors do not wish to be recognized.
What collateral is being used to secure the loans?	Collateral will be the capital and pledges raised, the building itself and the leases to tenants. Pledges and in-kind contributions are discounted to 80%
Has a bank committed to a mortgage for the RCC?	Several banks are willing to participate with Fulton Bank as the lead.
The FAQ responses state that a 3.9% interest rate is estimated for the loan. What is the feasibility of the project?	Our projected interest rate for the loan was 3.9%. Current actual rates for the tax-exempt, bank qualified loans are as lowas 2.75%. The feasibility of the project is good. The feasibility study is provided on the website.
Has the RCC reached the $1.5M campaign goal?	The RCC capital campaign has raised over $900,000 to date and is increasing every day.
Is there a clause on the leases that the YMCA or medical offices signed that they can pull out if expected revenue is not met?	The tenant leases are for the full term with severe penalties if terminated prematurely.
Do you have a plan in place if RCC defaults on loan?	There are several alternative tenants that have expressed interest if the initial tenants opt not to renew their leases. Some community centers operate without a YMCA -- they are self managed (McAllisterville, Danville, Beaver Springs)
What right will a bank have to use the facility if it has to foreclose on the property?	The bank will be limited to the uses as described in the land lease from PVSD.
If the bank forecloses, can the building be sold to a third party without the school board's approval?	The land use contract between the PVSD and the RCC requires that PVSD approves all RCC Tenants and tenants of the building.
Are you or the board members willing to sign the mortgage that is the RCC can not meet its payments you personally will pay mortgage?	The RCC is the loan guarantor. All legal RCC documents are with the school and the tenant organizations, not the individuals from any of those organizations.
Can the PVASD balance the budget without revenue from the RCC?	The PVSD has not included the RCC in their 2012-13 budget plan.
Is the announcement publised on January 21st in the Lewistown Express that the PVASD intends to seek approval from the Dept of Ed to raise property taxes beyond the allowable limit related to the RCC or any expenses that have been incurred in preparing for the RCC?	The RCC project had nothing to do with the tax notice in the Lewistown Express. This is the normal tax planning procedure according to Act 1 and has been going on for about 5 years -- since Act 1 legislation was passed.
Have any school funds been used in raising funds for RCC or have school empolyees spent time during school hours to work on RCC material?	No PVSD funds have been used for RCC fund raising. Any RCC usage of PVSD facilities have been tracked and builled to RCC. Some PVSD employees have donated their personal time to work on the RCC project.
Is it a conflict of interest for a PVASD board member to serve on RCC board?	There is no conflict of interest for a school board member to serve on the RCC board. It is common for overlapping boards to occur in communities. CPI (Vo-tech) has board representation from the schools that participate as do various organizations with shared facilities -- sewar, water and recreation in our area.
Why is the school phone number listed on all the brochures?	The school number was mistakenly listed as a carry over from the Ram Club. The Ram Club includes the PV Alumni Association and the PV Endowment Fund -- both school related groups.
What approvals, if any, have been sought from the Pennsylvania Department of Education?	The RCC complies with allowed used per Pa School Code. There are numerous examples around the country and even some in Pa where YMCA or community centers are built on school property. In fact, one such YMCA is physically connected to an elementary school in Pa.
Is the RCC being build to the specifications required by the state for an educational facility? Will the Department of Education be involded in inspecting the plans or the facility?	State Code dictates all commercial construction. If state funds are used, they carry other requirements. Local, County and state officials have reviewed the plans. State code enforcement agents will be inspecting the RCC.
Are the independent board members evaluating the project independent of the board members who participate?	The RCC board operates independently of the PVSD board, but strives for the best interests of PVSD, RCC tenants and the PV community. There are 7 of the 9 PV board members that are not directly involved in the RCC project.
Will an independent audit be conducted to ensure that any school funds used on the project are refunded by the RCC?	PVSD is audited annually according to the state requirements.
Are you willing to print all meeting minutes in local paper or on your website?	The RCC board has not yet decided how to share its meetings or minutes with the public. The RCC boad meets monthly and has additional meetings on shorter notice as required. It is not common to have the public attend board meetings for private, non-profit organizations. For example, the YMCA board meetings are not open to the public. They are a private non-profit organization, that does not receive public funds. It is the CEO's responsibility to address any and all questions and it would be the CEO's decision to notify the Executive committee on any matters. This is how the RCC board has operated to date.
Has the school board considered putting a question on the primary ballot if the community is in favor or not to have the RCC built?	PVSD, as most Pa school districts, has no such precedent for referendum on these types of issues. In fact PVSD has numerous examples where they have provided school land for community uses without a referendum (Centre Hall Library, Gramley School, Old Gregg School)
Can Ms. Rudy provide a break down of various financial scenerios for the center? For instance, RCC's profitability without Medical office income? We assume this information has already been calculated for purposes of the RCC's business plan.	Ms. Rudy provided the primary financial plan for the RCC. There are countless variations possible.
A feasibility study was conducted to evaluate the project, is there any data from the study that can be shared to help understand the need for various components of the project, such as the senor center?	Both the YMCA and Senior Center were pursuing various options for a centralized PV location for years. In fact, both considered the Old Gree School and determined that is was not a good fit before the RCC was ever developed. The occupants of PVHWA have considered several options for growth, both at the PVHWA site and elsewhere. There was a study by the Centre County Community Foundation of various regions. The number one need determined by their 2007 study was development and recation activities for PV youth. So, we have numerous sources besides our 2010 RCC study to indicate needs in PV. All of the organizations participating with the RCC -- PVSD, YMCA, Senior Center, etc. have all opted to join the RCC voluntarily.
Who reviewed and analyzed the data from the feasibility study to create the projections for the project?	NCS conducted the survey and analyzed the data. They have done so for many community projects in central Pa. NCS is the firm hired to help the RCC capital campaign.
How were projections for the need for the senior center and the medical center derived since they were not part of the orginal survey?	Both the YMCA and Senior Center were pursuing various options for a centralized PV location for years. In fact, both considered the Old Gree School and determined that is was not a good fit before the RCC was ever developed. The occupants of PVHWA have considered several options for growth, both at the PVHWA site and elsewhere. There was a study by the Centre County Community Foundation of various regions. The number one need determined by their 2007 study was development and recation activities for PV youth. So, we have numerous sources besides our 2010 RCC study to indicate needs in PV. All of the organizations participating with the RCC -- PVSD, YMCA, Senior Center, etc. have all opted to join the RCC voluntarily.
Has any additional third party data, such as US Census data been used to study the demand for the facility?	The US census data shows PV growing more than almost any region in Centre County over the next 20 years -- about 43% (see Feb. 12, 2012 CDT).
Do you agree that the 622 Penns Valley households that received the study questionnaire is a very low number to be sent out? According to the 2000 Census, the Penns Valley School District.	A sample size of over 600 surveys is statistically valid for the PV population of approximately 11,000.
Were PVASD funds used to fund the cost of the feasibility study?	No PVSD funds were used to pay for the feasibility study. The study was paid for by the Ram Club.
Did the RCC board hand pick the 40 individuals interviewed for the feasibility study?	The RCC board did not exist until July 2011. The Feasibility study was done in 2010. The interview candidates were picked by NCS based upon the returned written surveys and input from the Ram Club and various community leaders.
Were the medical doctors offices included in this study?	Some medical doctors were included in the study.
Would you consider printing a study in the Grapevine?	A summary of the study is posted on the RCC Website.
The RCC never put plans for the building up for bid?	Our build team volunteered for this project and their projected costs are very attractive compared to market prices. Bids will be considered for subcontracting work. Our buildteam has not taken any payment for RCC work to date.
Does the RCC business plan contemplate scenerios without YMCA and doctors offices?	The RCC can continue without the YMCA as does the McAllisterville, Beaver Springs and Danville Community centers. The RCC would have to hire staff and still charge membership fees. That's the advantage of the YMCA bringing in their expertise in managing and programming. As for the medical center, there are other medical providers that have expressed some interest in the RCC. In reality, the medical center will invest significantly in leasehold improvements and will not want to leave its investment.
Has the RCC taken into consideration overall economy of the country?	The Ram Club was about to begin its capital campaign in late 2008 and postponed it until 2011 based upon the economy. We also downsized the plan from a large $15 million recreation facility occupied and financed primarily by the PVSD to the smaller RCC that is not reliant upon the PVSD as a tenant and offers broader community services.
Do you have groups committed to pay rent on the gym space in the RCC other than PVASD?	The YMCA has leased the gym and entire recreation facility for 5 years. There are provisions to allow PVSD first priority from 3:00 to 6:30 pm throughout the school year. The YMCA will also rent event space to various community groups as the schedule allows.
Is it true no rent will be paid by PVASD for use of locker rooms?	PVSD will have to rent the locker rooms if they want to use them. The public and YMCA restrooms will be available to PVSD and the public at no charge.
Do you think the $60,000 a year lease rate to RCC is high?	The land lease cost is $8,800 as per a certified market appraisal. The $60,000 in revenue paid to the school would be for water, sewer and some heat as well as gounds maintenance provided by the school. The utilities will be metered and charged accordingly. This provides PVSD with revenues from existing assets. It provides the RCC utilities as a reasonable rate without the upfront capital costs if it build them for themselves.
RCC states no local taxes used in building or operating RCC. Does this also mean NO state or federal money?	The RCC has not pursued or used any state or federal funding. Those funds usually require the use of prevailing wage whic would increase the cost to build the RCC significantly.
Are the responsibilities and standards for PVASD to bill RCC for maintenance on shared spaces for instance, upkeep on shared lower level parking lot, clearly defined in the lease arrangements?	The lease defines the general approach how those costs will be handled. Separate contracts will be developed for each.
Has the YMCA considered at least initially setting up programs in existing buildings to be sure there is enough interest in Penns Valley to support a YMCA?	The YMCA already has 273 paid members in PV. It budget goal is about 660 once it is established.
Has YMCA looked into setting up programs in either or both Old Gregg School or the Centre Hall Elem. School?	YMCA did evaluate the Old Gregg School and determined that it did not meet their needs. The Centre Hall Elementary could not provide enough dedicated space to meet YMCA needs.
Is it true the YMCA must have 6,000 members for the YMCA to stay in the RCC?	The YMCA budget is based upon 660 members and it already has 273 in PV.
Has a tenative rental fee schedule with the school district been established for anticipated school athletic use?	The multi-purpose room rental would be $10-20/hour while the gym is $40/hour for the whole gym. No fee has been established for the locker rooms.
What is the projected budget for the school's rental use of the RCC?	PVSD has not budgeted any expense or revenue for the RCC.
Do you believe the YMCA will not be able to sustain itself if it was built off school property?	Building off-site would reduce the appeal for the YMCA since it would loose access to athletic fields, the track and other gyms. It would also limit the after school programs that students could access if on school grounds.
It is my understanding a study done several years ago in hopes of putting a YMCA in Penns Valley showed PV could not support a YMCA. Has this changed now?	I know of no such study. The YMCA has been trying to get established in PV for years, but could not find a suitable arrangement.
Are you aware YMCA charges for even Biddy Basketball games?	The RCC and YMCA will charge for all RCC usage except public restrooms. They also offer aid for memberships for those that can not afford it. Last year the provided over $300,000 in aid in Centre County.
Is it true the RCC already has plans to add a pool to the building?	The RCC and YMCA have tentative plans for a second phase with a pool in a few years after getting established.
Do you believe the Millheim pool is over crowded?	I do not know the usage rate for the Millheim pool. If the RCC does build a pool, it should enhance attendance at the Millheim pool in the summer. Indoor pools are used very little in the summer months and the Millheim pool is only open in the summer.
Did RCC board approach Mt. Nittany Physicians Group to move their offices to the RCC?	The RCC board was not even formed when discussions began with Mt. Nittany around Feb. 2011.
Proposed upper parking lot only hs 50 spaces at least half will be taken up by employees. Do you think 25 spaces for medical offices are enough?	Our architect and engineers have determined the parking requirements based upon tenant input.
Is the physical therapy group non-profit?	The proposed physical therapy group is a for-profit organization.
Has the RCC gotten all its sewage permits?	RCC is in the final stages of the sewage permit process.
Will the RCC have to put in its own sewage?	The RCC will buy sewer capacity from PVSD, similar to how PVHWA currently does.
Have all permits been obtained?	All other permits have been obtained.
Did the RCC consider Geo Thermal Heating and cooling system?	The RCC did not consider Geo Thermal since the Bio Mass capacity was available.
If the RCC hooks onto PVASD sewage this means the school buildings can never increase in size without replacing the exisiting system?	There should be adequate capacity to meet the RCC, PVHWA and PVSD needs. About 30-40 years ago, the PVSD population was about 50% more than the current levels and the sewer system handled that.
Will more water wells need to be drilled to include RCC?	PVSD currently use less than 50% of their well capacity during the school year, so there is plenty of excess capacity.
Do you believe the existing PVASD sewage system will need more repairs if RCC is connected to the system?	The PVSD sewer plant is inspected semi-annually and any needed repairs are done as a result of those inspections.
Has RCC considered leaving out the word Community? Do you consider the RCC a want not a need for folks in Penns Valley?	The orginal name for the RCC was simply Ram Centre -- short and easy, just like the Lions Den in McAllisterville. We changed it to the Ram Community Centre during the summer of 2011 based upon feedback from the community and donors.
Is it true RCC board members are self appointed?	The board candidates are reviewed by the Ram Club.
Do you believe all concerns of interactions with general public and students have been addressed?	I believe that many RCC interactions with the school and public have been addressed but new issues will continually arise thorughout the life of the project and will have to be dealt with. This is normal for any groups as they work together.
If the RCC is not built on school property what would PVASD be able to collect on taxes?	The RCC or any non-profit organization in Pa would not pay real estate taxes regardless if on private or public property. Putting the RCC on private ground would actually eliminate those taxes from the PVSD revenue.
What types of jobs will PVASD create for RCC? (example maintenance, scheduler)	A wide variety of jobs would be created by RCC -- YMCA program leaders and administrators, janitorial, Medical staff, other tenant administrative jobs to name a few.
Some of your articles refer to NCS. Who or what is this?	NCS is a professional fund raising organization that has helped many non-profit groups throughout central Pa.