To the editor:

Portsmouth voters — please vote yes on Question 6 to approve the town’s authority to borrow in support of school capital projects.

The middle school roof is in critical condition, and it must be replaced immediately. There is also one section of the high school roof that needs replacing to finish that job. These are not improvements we would like to make “someday.” They are critical repairs that cost more than our existing capital funds can cover.

Most importantly, if voters approve Question 6 (School Bond), Portsmouth will be eligible for 35% reimbursement from the state on both the principal and interest associated with the bond. That means borrowing for these repairs will be cheaper for Portsmouth taxpayers. The middle school roof is going to be replaced either way. Question 6 decides how much reimbursement we get from the state.

The borrowing authority is capped at $41 million. The Town Council approves the projects before any money is borrowed, and nothing gets spent without a public vote by your elected council.

The Portsmouth School Committee voted unanimously to support this bond. Please vote yes on Question 6.

On behalf of the entire School Committee,

Emily Copeland

Chair, Portsmouth School Committee