Rep. John Sellers: Urging participation at Newfound's March 10 meeting

To The Daily Sun,

Voting is on March 10 this year and the Newfound School District is asking for $2.1 million representing a 7.91% increase over last year. Alexandria and Danbury will pay the largest share of this bill with Bristol and New Hampton contributing smaller portions. If everything passes, this increase will cost taxpayers approximately $800 on a $400,000 home.

There are some arguments for new taxes, i.e. insurance and salaries go up and repairs are needed and there are some arguments against new taxes, i.e. poor proficiency scores in reading, writing and math, administration costs, declining student count, and maybe having too many facilities to maintain and support.

The numbers: 

• Last year’s approved budget: $27,242,996
• Proposed budget (without warrant articles): $28,346,133
• Total proposed budget (if all warrant articles pass): $29,398,128
• Total increase in tax dollars: $2,155,132 (7.91%)

Breakdown of proposed increases (warrant articles):

• Teacher salary increase: $378,989
• New solar roof installation (20-year lease): $94,824
• New LED lights at high school (20-year lease): $85,447
• New propane boiler (20-year lease): $492,735

If taxpayers support these increases, then come and vote yes. If they oppose these new taxes, then come and vote no.

Most importantly, participate. If residents show up and vote on March 10, our community benefits from an engaged and informed electorate.

Rep. John Sellers

Bristol