What Montclair’s Cancelled Referendum and NJ Case Law Suggest for Berkeley Heights
- Applies Montclair’s 2024 court dispute to BHPS timelines and decision-making.
- Explains Board obligations under state law once a proposal is formally introduced.
- Outlines risks if planning, notice, or scope is changed mid-process.
- Shows how courts balance voter rights with district discretion in capital planning.
Laura’s Notes on the Referendum Portion of the BOE Meeting
- 99-page presentation offered no updates despite months of concerns.
- Critical MEP and roofing needs placed in Question 2.
- Former BOE leaders raised concerns about priorities and messaging.
- Motion to reorder questions failed despite public support.
- Recent failures at MP, CMS, GLHS highlight urgency.
Student Testimony Underscores Challenges in Referendum Structure
- Classrooms dropped to 56 degrees during heating failures.
- Coolant leaks displaced classes for weeks.
- Roof leaks threaten electrical systems.
- Instructional needs placed in Question 2, not Question 1.
Community Voices: Berkeley Heights Deserves Clear Answers
- Calls for full spending and state-aid breakdowns.
- Questions grouping of MEP needs with lower priorities.
- Dual-question structure may risk essential repairs.
- Tax messaging remains inconsistent.
BOE Representative Sai Akiri Responds to Questions
- Clarifies new debt always impacts taxes.
- Challenges “replacing debt = no impact” claim.
- Questions necessity of $50M borrowing given enrollment.
- Calls for full, honest accounting.
Dr. Feltre Responds to Questions
- Explains urgency tied to 2026 debt roll-off.
- Notes referendum avoids burdening operating budget.
- Calls for stronger transparency and clarity.
- Community feedback will shape improvements.
BHPSNJ Referendum Explained – Part Two
- Explains Question 1 vs. Question 2 linkage.
- Identifies low-priority items in Question 1.
- Highlights essential needs in Question 2.
- No contingency if referendum fails.
BHPSNJ Referendum Explained – Part One
- Identifies errors and unclear diagrams.
- Breaks down Question 1 scope.
- Breaks down Question 2 scope.
- Challenges “zero tax impact” claims.
Soft Costs, Maintenance and Inflation Risks
- Breaks down $50.3M estimate.
- Soft cost concerns over 20%.
- Missing inflation/escalation factors.
- Duplicated budget lines.
Statement from BOE Representative Sai Akiri
- No vote due to late-arriving financial data.
- Documents lacked clear state submission breakdowns.
- Timeline driven by referendum date, not review quality.
- Pushback on “no tax impact” messaging.
The 02/26/2025 BOE Referendum Presentation in a Snapshot
- Details why BHPS must issue bonds this fiscal year.
- Outlines 13-step referendum timeline.
- Explains March election cost of $30,000.
- Shows up to 34% state aid eligibility.
Dr. Feltre on Referendum and School Closings
- Inherited backlog of deferred maintenance.
- 2026 debt roll-off provides referendum window.
- Meeting aims to align architects & financial advisors.
- Safety & staffing guide closure decisions.
