To the Editor:

I urge you to join me in voting “yes” on Princeton Public Schools’ Facilities Referendum.

The special election will take place on January 25, 2022. If passed, the referendum provides our community with a smart, timely, and cost-effective blueprint: these 20-year bonds would fund the replacement of older, out-of-date roofs in every one of our six school buildings; ensure that the new roofs are able to sustain future solar panels; and replace siding and other critical maintenance needs. All of these needs have been publicly identified and listed on the district’s website.

The timing is right — thanks to our district’s AAA bond rating, the interest rate for these longer-term bonds currently are and should remain at near-historic lows. Moreover, if we approve this referendum, the state of New Jersey would provide grants for up to 34 percent of the amount of principal and interest. Because of the timing of the proposed new bonds being issued as older debt is retired, the annual cost to Princeton residents for capital debt will go down, even with this new $17.5 million referendum. And these new costs will be spread across 20 years, as it is only fair for Princeton families who move here in the future to also contribute to the upkeep of our schools.

Our students, teachers, and staff must be able to learn in a safe environment. This referendum is a timely, cost-effective means of doing so.

If you have received your ballot in the mail, please mail it back as soon as you can or return it to one of the two secure drop-boxes in Princeton, outside of the Municipal Building or on the circle near the Dinky Wawa. If you plan on voting in person, please note that the polls will be open between 1:30 and 8 p.m. on Tuesday, January 25, 2022.

Let us vote to continue to support our students, teachers, and staff while strengthening some of the jewels of our community — our public schools.

Gregory Stankiewicz
Jefferson Road