Vote yes on school bond
To the editor,
On Sept. 2, I landed what will undoubtedly be the best job I will ever have, motherhood. The last five weeks have been a whirlwind of sleepless nights, newborn snuggles, and countless diaper changes, but what has resonated with me the most is how thankful I am to have moved back to my hometown of Scarborough to be surrounded by my family and friends. Their love and support has been such a blessing and it has reminded me of how lucky I was to grow up in Pleasant Hill.
I have been following the progress made regarding the consolidated school and it is clear to me what an immense amount of work has gone into the proposal on the ballot in November. This proposal has been painstakingly thought out over multiple years and it is long overdue, as too many of our students are already spending their school days in portables. I feel incredibly lucky to live in a community where so many members are willing to put in their time, effort, and often nights away from their own kids to develop this proposal. I am truly excited at the prospect of sending my son to a school that has been specifically designed to meet his learning needs and will allow him to flourish during some of the most formative years of his life. I encourage everyone to vote yes for the consolidated school proposal and the future of our Scarborough little ones, they deserve it.
Kate Traw
Scarborough
To the Editor,
As a community we have a responsibility to support the needs for every child who comes through our school system. The cost of building a school is not getting cheaper and Scarborough certainly isn’t getting smaller. We owe it to our children to give them the best school facilities.
After an exhaustive search where all plausible options were considered, it was determined that the new building is the best plan for this town for our students and for our taxpayer dollars. This is what Scarborough is known for, a beautiful town, with great schools, with great supportive people.
Please join me as I vote yes to bond a new unified K-3 School this November.
Jenna Leong
Scarborough
To the editor,
As one of the Chairs of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee for the Scarborough Public School District, I’ve witnessed the increasing numbers and unique needs of multilingual learners in our schools.
Our teachers, administration and staff have stepped up in powerful ways to serve every student, but they need our support.
As a community we have a moral imperative to care for one another and support our youngest members.
The unified school project takes anticipated growth and equity into account in ways that make me proud to support the proposal. Bringing our young learners together into one school and ensuring they are thoughtfully combined into smaller learning communities will support and unify them in a way that has never been possible. It ensures all our students have a safe, welcoming environment in which they will thrive.
Join me in voting “yes” in support of the school on Nov. 7.
Rev. Nicole Diroff
To the editor,
I am writing in support of the unified K-8 Strategic Solution & Unified Primary School project and would encourage everyone to review the comprehensive and thorough materials on the school’s building project website or attend a Q&A to learn more before going to the polls.
I recently came across a Letter to the Editor that suggested short-term temporary solutions, while not perfect, would “buy us a year while we figure out a better solution.” It’s important to note that this school project was originally conceived in 2014 – almost 10 years ago- and since then has undergone numerous rounds of well-considered proposals. The process has consistently included opportunities for public input, participation and suggestions at every stage. Any assertion to the contrary, which aims to generate fear or uncertainty, is misleading.
Every possible option has been thoroughly examined, and all available choices have been diligently reviewed. We are now faced with a decision that calls for us to support what the Town and School believe is the best solution to address the multifaceted and complex challenges our students and staff are currently facing. Challenges that we know will still remain in the years to come.
Please join me in showing your support for our teachers, staff and students by voting Yes on Nov. 7th!
Sarah Leighton
Scarborough
To the editor,
It has been at least eight years that Scarborough School Boards have been informing the public about the condition of the three K-2 schools. Annually, facility managers have long reported to the Board about their efforts to shore up buildings. Years of patching and making due with renovations and portables has been our continuous response and challenge. It should not be surprising that school building needs would come to the forefront again and finally be on our ballot.
The current building committee and school administrators have done some extensive data development and outreach to our community regarding the best way to address the needs of our students and staff. The result being a new K-3 building, the most economically feasible solution. New schools are designed with consideration of the developmental age of students (schools within schools) and are guided by instructional needs to satisfy regulations and teacher directed needs that reflect current best practices in education. Educators know this best because they are expected to deliver on state and federal educational requirements. Over the last forty years, Scarborough residents have seen the town’s ability to manage growth well and it continues to diversify its commercial base, making it possible to afford the new school proposal. This well planned, reasonable, low impact on taxes plan, is the best solution to resolve the deficiencies in our schools.
Decide to support our students and staff, make time to vote, and vote YES for the new K-3 school building.
Donna Beeley
To the editor,
After reviewing the need and urgency for a district wide solution to address our school’s overcrowding and structural limitations, most agree we need a solution. The question we vote on in November is what that solution looks like.
Right now, our youngest students are putting their snow boots and gear in a laundry basket in the school’s hallway because there isn’t enough spaces. Classrooms atr crammed full of school supplies because teachers do not have sufficient storage space. Our entire sixth-grade class learn in a portable classroom and the majority of our middle school classrooms are forced to share spaces which don’t prioritize students’ needs and ability to focus. These things are NOT the right solution.
The Building Steering Committee left no stone unturned and have brought together a solution built on facts that is strategic, district-wide, and community focused.
The unified school and K-8 strategic plan provides our students and community a solution that is built to grow with us. It supports our teachers and faculty in continuing to provide Scarborough families with the level of equitable, empathetic, and well-rounded education our community prides itself on.
Our kids are looking to all of us right now to take ownership and move this project forward. Voting yes for the project will do just that and will allow us all an opportunity to build an educational future our kids deserve. Please join me in voting yes for our schools and for our
future.
Shannon Lindstrom
Vote no on school bond
To the editor,
The new Consolidated Elementary School, if approved by voters, will be the most expensive municipally-funded school in the State of Maine and the most expensive building project in Scarborough’s history. And yet there was no meaningful outreach to the community to get their thoughts before the final decision was made by the School Board to change our educational model and close all of the neighborhood Schools – permanently. That was short-sighted and wrong.
In justifying the cost of the consolidated school, the School Board claims it will cost $230 million more to upgrade/renovate the neighborhood schools. Any reasonable person knows that is absurd! Their estimates do not reflect renovations. They essentially call for tearing down and rebuilding the three neighborhood schools and building one additional school. In that scenario, each of the existing schools would be enlarged to almost double their current size. In addition, each of the rebuilt schools was estimated to be between 239- 249 square feet per student compared to state guideline of 140 square feet per student. This is clearly a case of wants versus needs with no consideration for fiscal responsibility at all.
If this referendum fails, the School Board must stop with their close-minded mentality that there is only one option and that it will only cost more if we don’t do this now. The School Board must reach out with a survey (as Cape Elizabeth has done) to get the community’s opinion on the future of Scarborough’s schools. Anything less is unacceptable. I will be voting No on Nov. 7.
Brian Kanode
Scarborough
To the editor,
I’m writing in regard to the consolidated elementary mega school that is proposed at The Downs mixed use business district.
As a Pine Point resident, I frequently travel Pine Point Road to almost everywhere I need. It’s not uncommon during school days at Blue Point Elementary, to see parents walking with their young children (and likely the children of friends and neighbors), to and from school. There are strollers, dogs on leashes and skipping tots too young to attend school. They excitedly waive goodbye and then later greet siblings and friends. The same lovely crossing guard who has faithfully served our children for many years, likely knows every child and parent’s name. This is just one, and very important example of what has always made Scarborough a special town and community, versus a city.
I no longer have young children. I know this elementary school experience was an incredible part of my children’s formative years. They were blessed to have this sense of community, safety, friendship and belonging. Parents knew each other and their children and looked out for all as their own, in our close knit neighborhood communities.
What a tremendous loss for Scarborough and its residents if this sense of community is lost for our youngest children.
Valerie Wylie
Scarborough
To the editor,
While I am persuaded of the need to accommodate future Scarborough student populations, I wonder if the town needs to rethink the scale and cost of its new school proposal. Like a homebuyer I am looking at neighboring comparisons to gauge whether Scarborough has determined an appropriate price for this new school project – that at $160 million just seems high.
South Portland just built a consolidated middle school for $70 million – that’s half the expense of Scarborough’sproposal ($140million) for the consolidated elementary school alone. Kennebunk recently built a high school for $35 million (or roughly $64 million if adjusted for inflation). For an additional $12 million (or $22 million inflation adjusted dollars) Kennebunk renovated two elementary schools.
Why is Scarborough’s plan so much more expensive? Why are my comparisons wrong?
I suspect this bond election will be very close where 100 votes could prove decisive. If I’m correct that many of my peers are similarly undecided, the school board could help its effort by answering these questions. Otherwise, like Kennebunk, the board may need to ask voters over multiple election cycles to fund this project until they find a number that satisfies the taxpayers.
We homeowners often return to the drawing table after home projects prove too expensive, and we have to live with more modest projects. While it’s disappointing to put aside exciting plans, homeowners simply must be shrewd with their money. We taxpayers should expect the same diligence with our local government.
Fred Follansbee
Scarborough
To the editor,
On October 18, the town council presented information regarding a proposed zoning change for the Scarborough Downs projected to add up to $1.4 million in tax revenue if implemented. Adjacent to the area would be the proposed school, which would not provide additional revenue to the town.
It appears that using the school parcel for tax-generating purposes could provide up to $2 million in tax revenue per year if included with the same zoning change. Instead, the town is proposing a building project that is expected to cost $160 million.
The school project, including land acquisition and major road construction, will cost $827 per square foot, which is 80% more than similar sized projects proposed or recently completed in Maine. Unlike many other school systems, 100% of the cost with interest will need to be paid for with local tax revenue.
While the need for improvements at some of the existing schools has been demonstrated, it is clear we did not arrive at the most cost-effective solution. The state will begin a new rating cycle for the Maine Capital School Construction Program in 2024 which could result in available state aid for one of the schools, and at least three Scarborough schools have room to expand on their existing parcels. While the consolidated school project seemed like it could make financial sense when it was first proposed, the current plan seems to prove otherwise. We can do better.
Tim Lambert
Scarborough
Can we trust numbers?
To the editor,
At this point, the Town Council and Town Staff are aware that the recently estimated savings to taxpayers of the Downs development of $528 per household shared with multiple media outlets (PPH, Scarborough Leader, WGME, etc.) contained a glaring error of omission that significantly overstated the savings. It has been confirmed in emails by Town Staff and a Town Council member that the calculations did not reflect the CEA monies reimbursed to the Downs (40% of the tax revenue) or any of the costs of the town services provided to the Downs development including the annual $940,000 educational costs of the estimated 47 students.
When appropriately accounting for these omissions, the actual savings, if any, will be significantly lower than reported. What is concerning is the town leadership has been aware of this omission for over two weeks. We can all understand honest mistakes. However, as of Oct. 10, there has not been any public acknowledgment of the error or any corrected estimate provided by the Town Council or town staff. Without acknowledging and correcting the information in good faith it raises the question of whether this was an honest mistake or something else. I urge the Town Council to take the steps to correct the public record at once, so we all have the correct information as we head to the polls,
Peter Hayes
Former Chair of the Scarborough Town Council and Finance Committee
Elect Cushing for Council
To the editor,
I am writing to express my strong support for the candidacy of Don Cushing for Scarborough Town Council. Don is one of the smartest people I know and has a wealth of real-world experience that will greatly benefit Scarborough and its tax payers in a time of rapid growth.
Don and I met in the 1990s as MBA candidates at USM’s School of Business. We served together on several teams where I witnessed first-hand his ability to assess a problem or opportunity and to collegially lead the team to the optimal course of action.
Over the course of his career, Don has run numerous large health care practices. He is adept at long-range planning and knows how to manage a budget to fund critical needs while making the best use of scarce financial resources.
Don has been a Scarborough resident for 30 years, but he has also lived and worked in American cities experiencing high growth. He has seen the good and the bad of urban planning, and is committed to making the best decisions for our town as it grows while maintaining the precious natural resources that make Scarborough such a great place to live.
I urge fellow Scarborough residents to visit www.cushingforcouncil.com to learn more about Don, and to vote for Don Cushing on November 7.
Tom Dyhrberg
Scarborough
Re-elect Caterina to Town Council
To the editor,
I am writing in support of Jean Marie Caterina for re-election to the Scarborough Town Council. I know Jean Marie well from serving for years with her on the Council. She exemplifies all of the qualities of leadership that we should want in our Council members. She is independent minded, thoughtful, and balanced in her assessment of issues. In governing, she reflects the values of the overwhelming majority of our community, fiscal responsibility, concern for those in need, and support for quality public schools. She is the consummate public leader, not wed to any extreme voice or ideology. I encourage everyone to vote for Jean Marie.
Bill Donovan
To the editor,
Jean-Marie Caterina is an experienced, pragmatic councilor who has championed keeping seniors in their homes by developing a $750 tax rebate. She also is a fierce advocate for our children ensuring that they have access to a high-quality education. Jean-Marie is fair and responsive to the needs of Scarborough residents, supporting housing diversity, while maintaining stable property taxes. She brings a wealth of business experience and a proven track record of public service. Jean-Marie works collaboratively and diligently with her fellow councilors and is respected, even by those who disagree with her. Please join me in voting for Jean-Marie Caternia so she can continue her good work on our town council.
Frayla Tarpinian
Scarboroug
Vote Anderson for council
To the Editor:
Jon Anderson is currently finishing his first term on the Scarborough Town Council where he is Chairman. Jon was born in the D.C. area; graduated from UVA; earned a Masters in Business Administration at the U of Maryland. A seven-year resident of Scarborough, married with two children 8 and 11, Jon is head of Global Medical Operations at Idexx. His interests are serving his community, coaching his kid’s teams, cooking, serving his church.
When asked, “Why do you like being on the Council?” Jon said: I love our community. I love problem solving. Our community is great. I want to be a part of the solution to make it better.”
When asked, “ What Council issues do you want to work on?” Jon said: “If re-elected, I want to continue to focus on:” 1. Public Engagement, Build public involvement and trust; 2. Conservation and Climate Change, Protect our marshes, Continue our open space plans; 3. Affordability “Scarborough is getting expensive. I want to find ways to keep everyone here comfortably;” 4. Growth Management, work on new development impact fees; affordable and workplace housing, work within the revised Growth Management Ordinance to manage growth; and 5. School, “Whatever happens in November, I want to ensure that students have excellent schools.”
Having often attended Council Meetings, I am impressed with Jon’s leadership skills; his ability to respect all sides; his ability to listen and empathize; his intelligence and his ability to deliberate with civility. I urge voters to elect Jon Anderson for Town Council!
Nina T. McKee
Scarborough
To the editor,
I am writing today to ask you to join me in supporting Jon Anderson for town council.
Jon has been an excellent servant and leader over the past three years, most recently serving as chair of the council and navigating some seriously challenging and divisive issues for our community. Jon has demonstrated his willingness to listen and take seriously all view points and opinions. During his time on the council, Jon has prioritized engagement and has worked hard toward this goal by promoting and working on Councilor Corner Live for residents to have more opportunities for residents to engage. He has worked hard toward a solution for our overcrowded and outdated schools, has committed to stabilizing taxes, and has goals to ensure conservation with an eye on climate. He has well demonstrated is commitment to this town, and his calm, collected demeanor is always a welcome addition to the council. I am enthusiastically supporting Jon Anderson in this election and I hope you do, too!
Jillian Trapini-Huff
Scarborough
To the editor,
Change is hard, even when it’s good. And right now Scarborough is experiencing a lot of change. In order to navigate it effectively we need empathetic and strategic leadership at the local level.
And that’s why I hope you join me in re-electing Jon Anderson for Town Council on Nov. 7. Jon cares deeply for the community and every resident. I’m constantly impressed by his openness to hear and understand diverse perspectives in order to make choices that best represent our shared vision for Scarborough.
He is a strategic leader who is able to navigate both the needs of Scarborough today and building the infrastructure that will set us for a successful future.
Jon Anderson is the leader we need today to build the best tomorrow.
Laura Petrolino
To the editor,
We are delighted to give our enthusiastic endorsement for Jonathan Anderson’s candidacy for Scarborough Town Council. Having known Jonathan for many years, we can attest to his unwavering dedication to our community and exemplary leadership skills.
Jonathan has served as the Council Chair for the last year. He has a hands-on approach, is engaged with members of the community, and is deeply committed to critical issues, such as conservation and the K-8 School Initiative.
As a successful professional Program Manager, Jonathan has a strong understanding of the complexities of cross-functional leadership which he has applied to local governance. Jonathan’s open and approachable demeanor ensures that all concerns and ideas of the residents of Scarborough are not only heard, but also genuinely considered.
We strongly encourage you to vote for another Council term for Jonathan to ensure we have a leader fighting for a brighter future for our community and residents.
Todd and Jennifer Jamison
Re-elect Crockett to Water District board
I have been a trustee of Portland Water District representing two communities for over 25 years. While working with Trustee Crockett since his election to complete a vacant term I have been very impressed with his interest and desire for understanding the entire responsibilities of a PWD trustee.
Trustee Crockett is a lifetime member of his community. This fact along with his involvement in many other town functions allows Trustee Crockett to truly understand the needs and desires of the ratepayers.
A vote for Leroy Crockett will help to ensure excellent representation for you the residents of Scarborough
William M Lunt III
Trustee Portland Water District
To the editor,
I am writing to support the candidacy of Leroy Crockett for the Portland Water District Board of Trustees. Leroy has been representing Scarborough well on this board and has been an active member in several Scarbough organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce and Kiwanis, to name a couple. He is a fellow SHS graduate and a classmate of mine and I have known him personally for over 40 years. He is an honest, diligent, and trustworthy man who conducts himself with the utmost probity. He listens to people and takes others into consideration in his dealings with his constituents. He has always been straightforward and open minded with me and I suspect with all of his personal, business, and political interactions. Please join me in supporting Leroy in this upcoming election.
Patrick O’Reilly
Scarborough
To the editor,
I’m supporting Leroy Crockett for Portland Water District Trustee for Scarbrough. Leroy is one of the most dedicated members to our community, having served on various Town Committees and Boards and currently serving as the President of the Scarborough Chamber of Commerce. He cares so deeply about this Town as a lifelong resident. You can see the twinkle in his eyes when he talks about how much he cares about Scarborough. It’s so genuine. Our water quality is so important to our everyday lives, and I trust Leroy will do the best job to ensure our water supply exceeds all standards. Please join me in voting for Leroy Crockett!
Jon Anderson
Scarborough
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