In Sunapee on March 10, a warrant article will be voted on that addresses a $25 million bond to build a new elementary school, improve the existing high school and includes a luxurious $4.3 Million “play fields” addition.
It has been insinuated that if the bond does not pass, our high school will close and students will be bused out of the district. Evidence of this threat is clear on social media, where supporters prominently post “Save our High School” and “Keep Sunapee K-12.”
Several speakers at hearings have told the taxpayers to “not think of this as money, it’s just a number.” Shame on you. Have some respect for the taxpayers.
This conflict is not whether we need school improvements, nor is it whether we want the best for the students. No, the conflict is in the who will pay and how it will be paid for. This can be resolved with a very equitable solution that does not require one group to suffer the entire burden of this massive debt.
The town and SAU can cut expenses and divert excess funds to the project, sell town-owned property and stimulate property development to increase the tax base, not the rate. There can be a commitment to raise a portion of the funds through grants and private donations.
If it was really all about the kids, the town and the SAU would be enthusiastic to share the sacrifice taxpayers are being strong-armed into making. Creative solutions can solve this issue.
MICHAEL SISEMORE
Sunapee