Re-elect Hale, Hornberger

The Island Now

Let me begin by saying that this is my own personal opinion.

It is that time of year again – the Mineola Union Free School District budget vote, along with two very important board of education trustee positions.

Though I know that most of you are well aware of the very difficult and emotional few years it has been in terms of reconfiguring the school district, I feel that it is most important that taxpayers are reminded once again as to why this journey was undertaken.

It has been a known fact that the school district has too many buildings to run efficiently. Rising costs, a failing economy and inequity in our buildings were key factors in reconfiguration. The board and the community went through an extremely tumultuous time in coming up with three conceivable plans.

The community spoke through their votes and we have all known since February what the new configuration would be. The board is well aware that not all areas are happy with the new configuration. We are also aware that for some, any tax increase at all would be unacceptable. We had to carefully balance the educational needs of our children with the ability of our taxpayers to pay. It was as simple and as difficult as that.

What complicates this situation further is the platform of the those challenging the incumbents, Mr. Hale and Mr. Hornberger.

These two individuals have worked tirelessly and courageously to offer a reasonable 2.37 percent tax levy to the community that keeps all program for our children (and even adds some new and exciting ones to it).

Yes, two buildings will have to close in order to achieve this, but the new configuration is both educationally and fiscally sound and will ultimately save taxpayers $37 million dollars. Our children will continue to thrive and flourish. Exciting times lay ahead!

Unfortunately, the new candidates (Ms. Levitan and Mr. Manapello) have talked about changing that reconfiguration should they be elected and therein lies my deepest fear.

During our last board meeting, Ms. Levitan’s “plan” was specifically discussed. Should new board members be elected, there is the possibility of a new majority board changing the plan.

Though I am sure it appeals to some, everyone should be very aware of what that might cost you, the taxpayer, and ultimately, the children.

Putting it simply, to maintain Ms. Levitan’s new reconfiguration, the tax levy increase for next year’s budget could be anywhere from 7 percent and up!! I simply cannot believe that most people of this school district could afford that type of increase in school taxes, especially in light of the very real possibility of a 2 percent tax cap imposed by the state.

If that budget was defeated, and I am most confident it would be, the cuts to the programs would be very real and very deep and the impact to our children would be disastrous. Equally important is the fact that Hampton Street School could close, something the community had clearly let know the board know they did not want.

I urge every parent and taxpayer to be informed and cast your ballot with knowledge. I urge you to vote yes for the budget, as it accomplishes what both taxpayers and parents want – a fair tax levy and a school system that is good for both children and home values.

I also strongly urge you to vote for Mr. Hale and Mr. Hornberger who have demonstrated integrity and honesty in their leadership. They are not afraid to stand up for all the children. They are not afraid to speak for the taxpayers who know that the status quo is no longer affordable. They are not afraid to make hard decisions.

In my opinion, another reconfiguration plan would throw all of the hard work, planning and money that has already been spent (at least $400,000) in moving forward. The chaos for the staff and most of all for the children, would be disheartening. Future tax levy hikes would spike tremendously and the effect on our students devastating.

Lastly, I wanted to acknowledge the tremendous input from the community on helping the board set the new path for the district (particularly the CCC).

I am well aware of the deep emotion and loss that is associated with closing schools and I know it has been very difficult for most to say goodbye to what is comfortable and familiar.

Change is so hard but I am confident that we are moving in the right direction. I have every confidence that our children will thrive because of the exceptional leadership of our administration, teachers and staff.

As Winston Churchill once said, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts.”

We need to put this chapter behind us and move forward with conviction and solidarity.

Christine Napolitano

Mineola board of education vice president

 

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