‘Sorting through the noise’

BY GAYLE SCHMIDT

At the May 2, 2024 (recorded) meeting the SBAC brought in a consultant to assist in identifying key criteria for developing a school plan. While all expressed SAFETY was important, “LIKLIHOOD TO PASS” gained the most votes in a live exercise.

If the most important criteria for SBAC members was to get something to pass, it seems contrary that some are now ignoring the forward momentum of acceptance by town voters!

In November of 2022, referendum failed by 62% to 38% vote. However, after the impressive work by the SBAC, months of iterations, multiple board meetings and public forums, in a November 2024 vote, the momentum shifted only failing 51% to 49%, with a 166-vote difference. In 2025, with more refinements, another referendum endorsed by the school board is now before the Town Council.

At the March 24, 2025 (recorded) TC meeting, 3 former SBAC members suggested an alternative which is not endorsed by the SB. Additionally, 2 other members shared views that the newest plan presented by the SB is the right one and why the suggested alternative comes up short.

In my opinion, Patrick and Corinne’s professional careers most closely align with project and their comments, therefore, hold the most weight.

If you find it challenging sorting through the noise, I suggest finding someone in the community that aligns most closely with your gut instincts, follow their lead, and vote with your heart, and hopefully on a June ballot.