Third Vote Cause for Concern?

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Created on Wednesday, 23 April 2014 18:21
Written by Matthew Drew

bmu budget re-voteWELLS RIVER - The Blue Mountain Union (BMU) School budget is being voted on for the third time since town meeting day and even more cuts to the budget are expected. The budget, which originally started at over eight million dollars, is now under eight million.

 "We really work hard to make sure the things we're asking for are things that we really do need," Said Principal Emilie Knisley. "If we have to go back to the drawing board then we get to the point where it does effect programs and it does effect kids."

This round of cuts will include special education teachers that will be retiring and resigning, the removal of one full time employee, removal of a weekend custodian, and cutting almost seven thousand dollars from technology.

Clarissa Elliot is a parent of a student at BMU and she is extremely concerned that the budget may not pass again.

"I can definitely see both sides of the issue," she said. "I can see why people might not want their taxes to increase, but I can definitely see the good side of the school and how many things that go on here and the importance of passing the budget."

Voting is currently open in all three locations and the polls will remain open until 7 p.m. tonight. According to town officials in Wells River, they have seen a big increase in voter turnout today compared to the last two votes.

Residents can vote at the town hall in Ryegate, The Village Garage in Wells River, or the Groton Community building in Groton.