The Lehighton Area School Board is giving consideration to constructing a new elementary school and football field; a building project with a pricetag of $52.5 million.

It will mean an increase in taxes in a district where taxes already are very high. Labor statistics show the employment picture in the county has improved by several percentage points in the past year, but high-paying jobs are still elusive.We're not saying the school district can't afford the project, nor are we saying it can.What we are saying is that the board has a difficult decision to make.Many in the community feel the project is too expensive and have begun speaking out against it.Back when the district built its present high school, an ugly scene prevailed between supporters for the project and those opposed. The opponents branded together and called themselves "Citizens for Affordable School."Hopefully, the board can avoid creating such bitter division in the school district.One way to do that is take direction from the community. Put the project on the ballot as a non-binding referendum.It will give time for board to show why there isn't a viable alternative to such a project.If there is a good alternative, opponents will have time to bring it to the board.The proposed project is moving too fast and as a result, unfortunate distrust and even hostilities are brewing.Four elementary schools would be replaced in the project. All are over 50 years old.Frankly, the school buildings erected in the 1960s were nothing in construction like those mammoth block structures built during the Depression-era decades earlier. There's no way they'll last as long.Something must be done to give Lehighton's elementary students a safe, modern, and productive environment. They deserve to be brought into the 21st century with proper equipment and suitable classrooms.We're not saying the present scenario isn't good, but after 50-plus years there are some questions raised.The bottom line, though, is what do the taxpayers want?They're paying the tab. Give them a chance to express their desire.By RON GOWERrgower@tnonline.com