From Denise Plantenberg

Monroe

I am writing in support of the $5.6 million school district referendum that will be on the ballot April 6th. The referendum to address improvements and updates at Northside School makes sense at this time. This proposal weighs the needs of our district, but also considers the financial pressures some tax payers may have experienced this past year. What is being proposed, replacing the HVAC and the roof, upgrading restrooms, improved lighting, and replacing parts of the exterior that have deteriorated, are all the kinds of upgrades and maintenance our own homes need over time. I feel nothing in this referendum can be considered elaborate or unnecessary, yet it ensures Northside School will be a safe and healthy environment for students for years to come.

Having worked in the school district for over 30 years, and having spent some of those years at Northside, I know the amount of time and money that goes into caring for our school buildings every day, every year. When substantial improvements are finally needed it’s not because of negligence over time, it’s because making do has run its course. I believe that our school district’s leaders have a sensible plan for addressing the needs at Northside while keeping the rest of the needs of the district solidly in front of them. Past projects are being paid off on time, and a date to finish paying for this project is set for only 3 years from now, without increasing property taxes. By choosing this project now over the larger high school project we heard so much about last year, they recognize that some taxpayers may not be ready to support a referendum with a higher price tag due to their own financial stress this past year caused by the pandemic.

Our schools reflect the values of a community. Addressing the needs of our school buildings on a regular, scheduled basis ensures Monroe’s continued ability to grow, to attract new businesses and with them, new jobs and families. Please vote YES for the referendum on April 6th. 

Thank you.

The deadline to submit a Letter to the Editor regarding the April 6 election was Wednesday, March 24. Letters submitted after the deadline will not be published.

No Letters to the Editor regarding the election will be published in the Wednesday, March 31 or Saturday, April 3 editions of the Monroe Times.