Schools chief urges voters to go to polls on Sept. 29

Next Tuesday, Sept. 29, the polls will open at 11 a.m. so you can cast your vote for or against the referendum for school repairs. The many years of hard work put forth by the District Strategic Planning Committee and the Buildings and Grounds Committee of the Board of Education are what led to this referendum vote and the reason it reflects no frills or extravagant items. We are not asking for huge entertainment centers, new buildings or marble floors. We are asking for what we need to provide the students of Brick Township a better environment in which to learn.

We understand that it is a large financial commitment for voters to make. We also understand the concern among some community members about the condition of our buildings.

I ask you to please not muddy the waters by pointing blame for the past, but to join me in moving forward to better our students' future. As superintendent, I want to ensure you that our school buildings will be maintained and not return to the poor condition we see them in today. I hope this referendum can provide a great, new beginning for everyone in Brick.

There are four questions the community will be asked to vote on next Tuesday. The items listed under the ballot questions are categorized in coordination with how the District was asked to apply for the $57.6 million in grant money we were awarded from the state. We believe these grants, along with today's economy, provides opportunity to make school improvements at low construction costs and low borrowing rates. Now is a good time to make these needed repairs. The $57.6 million in state grants will go to another district if we do not vote to use it for our schools.

Please mark your calendars and get out to vote on Tuesday, Sept. 29. It is most important that the passing or failing of this referendumis determined by as many voters as possible. The school budget was defeated by less than fifty votes last April. As registered voters, you now have the ability to vote by mail. This makes it easier then ever before to cast your vote from home if you cannot get to the polls on Tuesday.

Thank you to all who have worked so hard for this referendum and continue to show your enthusiasm and support for our students and teachers.

Walter Hrycenko

Superintendent Brick Township Public Schools