Submitted by BCS Communications
On Friday, September 2, Berlin Central School District (BCSD) residents will vote on a Capital Project with two propositions. Proposition 1 will replace the Middle/High School’s aging fuel oil tanks for two below-grade 6,565-gallon propane storage tanks, along with furnishings, machinery, equipment, apparatus, implements, and fixtures, as well as site work. It is estimated not to exceed $781,250.
Proposition 2 will similarly replace the Elementary School’s aging fuel oil tank with two below-grade 4,000 gallon propane storage tanks and associated site work. This proposition also includes a long-awaited Outdoor Learning Center, which has been in discussion for many years. This Learning Center will also be a space for the community to use in the future in addition to students and teachers using it for educational purposes throughout the year. Proposition 2 is estimated not to exceed $946,875.
Taxpayer Impact
This capital project will have no tax impact to the taxpayers, through use of the district’s Capital Reserve Fund and State Aid associated with the project.
“We are very excited about this capital project because it addresses certain long-term needs of our district both from a safety, as well as an educational standpoint, with zero tax impact for taxpayers. There have been discussions and planning about the tank replacement and an Outdoor Learning Center for many years and now we will be able to bring these to completion for our school district and community,” said BCSD Superintendent Joseph Dhara.
Why the Project Is Needed
• Propane burns cleaner, which is healthier for our kids, and at current fuel costs, the change is financially beneficial.
• The new tanks are highly regulated and come with multiple safety features, requiring reduced maintenance cost.
• Removal of the old tanks, which are not under any warranty, will minimize future environmental and financial impacts.
• The current Heating Oil tanks are no longer insurable and any spill in the future would make the district 100% liable. Any future spill would also be concerning because of the proximity of the tank to the water well.
• The Outdoor Learning Center will provide an opportunity for students to be more in touch with their local environment, while enhancing their learning experiences, aligning with the outdoor spirit of being a Mountaineer.
Voting
You are eligible to vote if you are a U.S. citizen, 18 years of age or older, and a resident of BCSD for at least 30 days prior to the September 2 vote.
Absentee Ballots
Absentee Ballots must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5 pm prevailing time on September 2. A list of persons to whom absentee ballots are issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the Office of District Clerk Dawn Demick on and after August 29, between the hours of 9 am to 3 pm, on weekdays prior to September 2.
