To the editor:

State ballot question one is a school bond measure that will allow the state to issue $250 million in bonds to help school districts across the state address critical infrastructure needs to help ensure students have warm, safe and dry environments in which to learn. I have read a couple misconceptions about this measure, and though polling suggests Rhode Islanders are overwhelmingly in support of this measure, you should still know what your vote will do.

Right now, 35 percent of Barrington’s eligible school construction costs, including the new middle school, are reimbursed by the state. If Question 1 passes, that could increase to as much as 55 percent. This means we will get more back from the state for the middle school and other future construction/renovations.

Our state income taxes will not increase if this passes. Old bonds are being paid off. Over the next few years, we would just be replacing retiring bonds with this new one. 

It is true that were this measure not to pass, our state income taxes *may* decrease, but I challenge anyone to vote against something that doesn't raise our taxes and will give Barrington more money for our own middle school construction costs, while also addressing critical needs around the state. This directly benefits the taxpayers of Barrington.

Steve DeBoth

Barrington