Letter: Vote ‘yes’ on Portsmouth school bond question

To the editor:

I’m writing to urge all my Portsmouth constituents to vote in favor of the school bond coming up for referendum on Nov. 2. With the opportunity for a 40-percent state reimbursement on the bond, this is a smart investment in our critical school infrastructure. 

Under usual circumstances, Portsmouth would qualify only for a maximum of 35 percent for state school building aid. However, under the new statewide school construction and improvement program enhancing reimbursement rates, many communities are applying for these funds. The program is a one-time opportunity to take advantage of additional state investment to help make the improvements our schools need to be safe, healthy and secure for our children into the foreseeable future.

Our community has done a great job maintaining our aging school buildings, extending their operational life significantly. The planned improvements to be funded under this bond will be required soon in any case, so let’s continue our history of good stewardship and efficient use of our tax dollars to take full advantage of this program. For the average Portsmouth homeowner, the cost you bear will be less than a hundred bucks per year in additional taxes. 

Please don’t miss this opportunity to make a smart, lasting investment in our children, our community, and the excellent school system that serves Portsmouth so well.

I urge everyone to vote “yes” on the Portsmouth School bond question in this upcoming special election.

Sen. Jim Seveney

District 11 (Portsmouth, Bristol, Tiverton)

72 Macomber Lane

Portsmouth