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Babylon School District voters reject bond proposals Residents had the final say on Tuesday, November 14, 2006, as they rejected the two bond proposals presented by the Babylon School District. The Infrastructure and Safety bond was defeated by a narrow margin of 25 votes (683 to 658), while the Athletic Facilities Bond was more easily defeated by 337 votes (840 to 503). Together, the bond proposals would have cost voters $11.25 million. According to results of the district's exit poll, most who voted "no" cited high taxes as their reason. "We were prepared for a close vote [concerning the Infrastructure and Safety Bond], but thought it would have been successful," said Ellen Best-Laimit PhD, Babylon Schools superintendent. "This proposition included projects that are very much needed, and since it was a responsible proposition, it is my hope that it will be resubmitted to the community." The Infrastructure and Safety Bond sought funding to replace roofs, repair concrete and brick work, as well as upgrade or replace some mechanical systems, among other items. The Athletic Facilities Bond sought funding to install a synthetic all purpose field to replace the school's dirt field and to replace the school's tennis courts. "We knew the Athletic Facilities Bond would be a hard sell-a tough battle," said Jerry Guerra, spokesperson for the Babylon Turf Field Fund Committee. "We appreciate that the board put it up for a vote and let the people decide." "I think the turf issue has been addressed [through this proposition]," said Darrell Conway, Babylon School Board president. "I was certainly surprised about the outcome of the Infrastructure and Safety Bond. I had not heard many negative comments about that proposition." "Many exit poll comments indicated that the Athletic Facilities Bond would only provide for a portion of our students and the money would be better spent on services and instructional supplies for all children.", said Best-Laimit. The board will meet this week to discuss what direction to take concerning the failed propositions. IN OTHER SCHOOL NEWS... Lindenhurst voters approved a $7.6 million bond referendum on November 15 by a vote of 687-195. The capital improvement plan will bring great improvements to all district buildings, including new boilers at Harding Avenue and West Gates Avenue schools, new communication systems at all schools, and improved security systems at several locations, said school officials. Most of the money for the referendum will be provided by the state, as $5.3 million will be funded through building Aaid and the remaining $2.3 million will be provided as EXCEL Aid. Since the district is receiving two forms of aid for this project, there will be little or no impact at all on Lindenhurst residents said Superintendent of Schools Neil Lederer.
The district plans to have work begin during the summer of 2007 and projects that it will completed shortly thereafter.
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