Why I'm voting Yes for Proposition 1 & 2 for Facilities & Fields tomorrow.

As a father, coach, tax-payer and concerned citizen I think that it’s important to share the facts about Propositions 1 & 2 that are being brought up for a vote on Tuesday, December 10th.

The confusion and misperception of what exactly Propositions 1 & 2 are, how much they will cost each taxpayer and why they are needed in the first place jeopardize the passage of these important referendums – which will in turn have serious repercussions throughout our communities for years to come.

Conversation on these propositions has centered on a single issue – synthetic grass fields — and that is simply only part of the story.

Using synthetic grass fields in two locations is only part of the overall plan to allow our very limited field space to keep pace with the escalating demands of both our schools and communities athletic programs.

But if we focus on just that part of Propositions 1 & 2, we’re ignoring the bigger picture – our children go to school in buildings that are old and in need of upgrades and critical maintenance.

These propositions are about maintenance and repair.

The majority of the schools in our school district are venerable buildings that have served generations of our community’ schoolchildren. But like all older structures they need upgrades to both structure and systems as well as repair and maintenance work. Antiquated electrical systems, crumbling masonry, leaky roofs, are among the issues being addressed by tomorrow’s bond referendum.

Yes, we need an elevator – it’s the law.

The proposed exterior elevator and internal lift at Morse School isn’t an extravagance, it’s a Federally-mandated necessity. To bring the school into compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, our district MUST install this elevator to allow anyone with a disability access to the upper floors of the building.

Two important things to keep in mind here are that the because of this shortcoming, the school district must make arrangements to send any student with disability outside the district – at great cost to taxpayers and to the detriment of the student. Also because of this issue, no other work can be done to the building until it is brought into compliance with the ADA.

Also remember that this is not just for people with permanent issues, but students and staff who might have a short-term need for assistance with the stairs.

30% Off – For a limited time.

Aside from interest rates being at an all-time low, this is a perfect time to invest in our district’s infrastructure. The State of New York will reimburse our district 30% of the cost of these bonds. That’s approximately $2,900,000.

With State budgets under constant scrutiny, we can’t just assume that this offer will be there in the future, we must act now.

 A simple question.

Lastly, as you consider your position on these propositions, you need to as yourself one question — if the work in question was for my home, would I do it or would I kick the can down the road?

For me the answer is clear.

I hope to see you all Tuesday at the polls.