MARAS: Why I am voting ‘yes’ on Dec. 14 school referendum
EDITOR'S NOTE: Tom Maras is a resident of Fords.
After several weeks of looking into the documentation available on the BOE’s roof/solar panel upcoming referendum, which included both public and private discussions with the management of the Woodbridge Township School system, I remain convinced we need a “YES” vote on that referendum.
As the only BOE candidate that took a “No” position on last year’s school budget vote, it certainly does not come easy for me to encourage the taxpayers’ in Woodbridge Township to vote for anything that raises our taxes, even by another Nickel. But what choice do we have in this matter? Let the school roofs go, with all that will costs us down the road; a very short road to be sure! Or do we take advantage of State money and competitive contractors during this window of opportunity?
This is truly a situation of when we do it, not if we do it. Therefore, given all the data and the timing, it has to be a GO on the vote. That said, I will call for very close oversight of the bids, the bidders and the project. Additionally, I will be my usual intrusive, outspoken self during the entire process, from start to finish. In that connection, I know others will do the same.
Unless you can offer a better solution, please vote “Yes” in December on the referendum!