To the editor:

On Nov. 7, the voters of Barrington will be asked to approve a bond of up to $250 million dollars to make critical repairs and improvements to our schools. We should vote “yes”.

Our schools, which were all built in the 1950s, have served us well but they need to be repaired and renovated to support our growing student population and modern educational practices. We only need to look at the overcrowding at Primrose or the recent flooding at Sowams or any number of issues at the high school to see that our schools desperately need these renovations so they can continue to serve our kids.

If we approve this bond, Barrington taxpayers will not have to bear the entire $250 million dollars on their own. For a limited time, the state will reimburse Barrington taxpayers 55% of the total amount to be borrowed. That means Barrington will receive up to $250 million dollars of school upgrades for $112.5 million after reimbursement. That’s a good deal for our taxpayers.

Moreover, one way or another, Barrington will have to undertake these upgrades. The need to repair and renovate is not going away. The difference between committing to the bond now or waiting to spend the money is that the state is ready now to help with the costs. There is no guarantee of state money down the road and Barrington could be in a situation where a significantly larger portion of the cost of these projects will fall on Barrington taxpayers.

We are aware that this bond is a significant commitment for our taxpayers, particularly those on fixed incomes. Additionally, we know that the school committee is still working on a final design and construction plan. However, the bond vote is not the final decision on the project. The bond vote simply allows the planning process - and public input - to go forward towards a final design, construction plan, and price. The final up-or-down approval of the entire project, including the necessary borrowing, will come at a later financial town meeting.

Barrington is synonymous with excellent schools. We owe it ourselves, our students, and our educators to ensure that our schools are worthy of that reputation.

Jason Knight

State Representative District 67

Jennifer Boylan

State Representative District 66

Pamela Lauria

State Senator District 32