The bond referendum constitutes a part of the district’s effort to maintain safe and up-to-date educational facilities. The business administrator, Bill Moffett, likened the school buildings to aging homes that require more extensive maintenance. Superintendent Mark Toback underscored this point, stressing the importance of investing in a comfortable learning environment for generations to come. The discussion highlighted a strategic approach to funding, comparing it to a homeowner’s decision-making regarding repairs and upgrades, and emphasizing the use of various sources, including federal pandemic funds and capital reserves, for necessary projects.

One of the most debated topics was the expansion of the Pines Early Education Center to a prek-5 school, a move driven by the strategic location of the Pines School in an area expecting development and, consequently, an increase in enrollment. The board deliberated on the most cost-effective methods to manage this anticipated growth, considering the importance of maintaining the neighborhood school system and the district’s competitive standing.

Security enhancements at school entry points were also a key focus, reflecting parents’ concerns about safety, which had emerged as a top priority in a thought exchange conducted earlier in the school year. The board has worked diligently to secure grant funding to address these concerns, including the installation of security vestibules at several schools.

The board also addressed the need for facility maintenance, such as roof, window, and foundation repairs, which are important for the structural integrity of school buildings. These projects qualify for state aid, with the superintendent pointing out that building envelope projects are essential for maintaining school facilities. Additionally, the proposed expansion of the Preakness School to accommodate its growing student body, including those with special needs, was outlined, emphasizing the community’s interest in extended day options for working parents.

The potential financial impact on taxpayers was a concern addressed in the meeting. The board plans for community engagement to ensure a clear understanding of the referendum’s implications. It was noted that the average annual tax increase would be about $370 for a house valued at $230,000, with this levy being a separate component of the budget to repay the bond’s principal and interest.

A detailed overview of the projects funded by the proposed referendum included HVAC repairs, controls, boiler replacements, and drainage and settlement issues at the Anthony Wayne School. The board took pride in having 45 projects approved for funding through the Energy Savings Improvement Program (ESIP) of the state of New Jersey.

Discussions about the duration of the tax increase clarified that it would be temporary, lasting for the duration of the bond, which is projected to be 20 or 25 years. The financial advisor recommended a payback period of 25 years, and the board assured that the tax increase would not be permanent.

The board’s ability to refinance debt was also discussed, with a focus on minimizing tax impact and the strategic timing of refinancing. The upcoming referendum on school safety and security projects was underscored as crucial for the well-being of students and staff, with the board encouraging community participation in the referendum process.

Residents called for better communication and transparency about the referendum, urging that every taxpayer in town should receive direct communication. A former board member raised issues about the presentation of the referendum and the potential need for legal action against contractors from past projects. In contrast, another resident emphasized the dire consequences of not passing the referendum, such as increased class sizes and potential restructuring of the school system.

Board members expressed their support for the referendum, with member Donald Pavlak Jr. highlighting its significance for the future of the school system and urging community backing. Mark Faber shared his evolved stance in favor of the referendum after understanding its implications. Superintendent Mark Toback and other board members reiterated the importance of the referendum for the district’s future, stressing its relatively small cost compared to the potential benefits for property values and education quality.