To the Editor:
With the arrival of Tuesday’s special election, voters in Middle Township face a crucial decision in a $26 million bond referendum. This proposal aims to fund the expansion of preschool facilities, an elementary school and a football field.
In Whitesboro, members of the Whitesboro Historic Preservation Project are deeply invested in the success of the Middle Township School District since it’ll foreseeably serve the educational and recreational needs of Whitesboro’s kids. With the community’s growing needs, it is vital to assess the full impact of this measure before residents cast their votes. I spoke to some Whitesboro Historic Preservation Project members about Tuesday’s special election, and this is what they had to say.
Dr. Esther Hyatt, a retired school psychologist, emphasized the importance of advancing educational and recreational spaces, believing that such improvements will foster a better environment for our children. While her perspective highlights the potential benefits of enhancing the school district’s facilities, Mrs. Shirley Green raises important concerns about the financial implications. The proposed tax increase of $167 per household is significant, and she questions whether all funding options, including grants and state government partnerships, have been fully explored. The recent reclassification of Middle Township from rural to coastal has already resulted in steep increases in homeowners’ insurance premiums, compounding the financial strain on our community.
Mr. Bobby Harrison, deeply connected to the community and managing a large family, questions whether this bond referendum represents the best use of our taxpayer funds. He points to unresolved local issues, such as homelessness and inadequate infrastructure in Whitesboro, where rising taxes have not yet led to necessary improvements like paved roads and safer streets.
Ms. Arlayne Robinson also voices the strain that families are experiencing. Raising a family while navigating the financial pressures of living in our community is challenging, and she urges us to consider how this referendum measure aligns with the immediate needs of families struggling with day-to-day expenses and the broader demands of community improvement.
In navigating these complex issues, it’s crucial to strike a balance between investing in our children’s futures and addressing the pressing needs of our community. While improving educational and recreational facilities is commendable, we must ensure that all feasible alternatives have been thoroughly evaluated and that our financial commitments do not exacerbate existing hardships.
Transparency and a comprehensive review of funding options are essential. We encourage voters to consider these factors carefully and demand clear answers from our local officials before making a decision. As we strive to support our growing families and enhance our community, let us ensure that any investment reflects our shared priorities and upholds the thoughtful approach to progress that defines Whitesboro.
Felicia Simmons
Simmons is a supporting partner of the Whitesboro Historic Preservation Project, preservewhitesboro.org, email whitesborohistoricpreservation@gmail.com.
