Citizens for Responsible Investment in Our Schools is a group of concerned parents, some of whom are experienced engineers, teachers and community members who have come together for the safety of Haddonfield’s children and the good of the community. Citizens for RIOS have been critical consumers of the information presented by the Haddonfield BOE on the School Facilities Bond Referendum; it believe this bond responsibly addresses the critical needs of our schools.
It’s mission is simple: to educate voters by disseminating factual information, to provide opportunities for voters to ask questions and share information, and to encourage voters to vote “yes” March 8. It believes the community shares a desire to fix the schools and to fix them properly. Unfortunately, some of the information that is being publicized seeks to discredit the current bond.
“These projects are essential. After reviewing the details of this bond proposal, I find it hard to make a case against these projects. Conditions such as rusted lintels that support openings, failed roofs that cause water infiltration into the buildings, structural failure of the exterior envelope, and inefficient building systems are not conducive to providing a safe and healthy learning environment for our children.”
said Sai Yerrapathruni, having a master’s in Architectural Engineering — Construction and 15 years of large scale construction industry experience.
Bond Question 1 addresses critical needs at all five schools. There is structural damage and deteriorating conditions at all schools that must be addressed immediately. These include rusted steel and deteriorating brick and mortar — components that literally keep the buildings standing, the roofs from leaking, and the doors and windows functioning. Also included are replacement of failing systems, and outdated communications systems essential for security. The schools are crumbling. The items in Q1 are essential to the safety and security of the children. Average tax impact is $253 per year.
Bond Question 2 addresses air conditioning. Classroom temperatures have been recorded in the upper-90s during very hot days. School days have been shortened because temperatures were deemed too extreme and parents have reported severe asthma symptoms in their children. While some might view air conditioning as a luxury, extreme temperatures are a hazard to children who have health concerns and create classroom conditions that interfere with learning. Lack of air conditioning has interrupted the education of our children. Average tax impact is $30 per year.
Bond Question 3 addresses repairs to the high school track and stadium. The current track is not safe for the athletes and community members who regularly use this public space; it must be resurfaced to remain usable. If it is not repaired, athletes will have to use other towns’ facilities, resulting in significant usage and transportation costs to the district. The stadium has structural damage. If it is not repaired, areas of the stadium will need to be closed for safety reasons. Restricted use of the stadium/track will impact both Haddonfield’s children and the community at large. Average tax impact is $16 per year.
If you would like more information about this topic, please contact email CitizensforRIOS@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/CitizensforRIOS.
