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School Referendum Victorious; work to begin next spring

By Darryl McPherson

Block club organizer Roger Spurback supported the referendum
this year.

A small percentage of the registered voters of Niagara Falls came out in support of the School Board’s referendum to approve $66.7 million in capital improvements for City schools.

But it was enough.

The bond sale will finance capital improvement to the 11 campuses in Niagara Falls as well as some technical upgrades and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.

2,630 votes were cast in the affirmative and 403 in opposition, an 80% approval of voters.

“We’re pleased the community chose to support the referendum,” said Cynthia Bianco, School Superintendent. “It will mean a lot to our school district, and our children. It will also mean a lot to the trades people of the community who will have jobs from this…. It is a win-win.”

Last year, a similar referendum for a $130 million dollar bond sale failed. School Board member John Destino observed, “There was a 25% increase in turnout. There was a better job of explaining how it would be funded. People could wrap their arms around the figure this year and reevaluate how it would be used.”

As a result of the vote, the School Board will start planning the renovation efforts.

School officials said they hope to have plans filed with the State by January and looking to start work by late May of 2013.

 

 

Niagara Falls Reporter www.niagarafallsreporter.com Oct 02 , 2012