Assembly votes to let voters decide on school funding

During a recent assembly meeting, members engaged in a significant discussion regarding the potential inclusion of a ballot initiative aimed at allowing the public to vote on a longstanding issue. Member Statten and Gregor expressed support for giving the community the opportunity to weigh in on a matter that has not been presented to voters in many years. They emphasized the importance of public participation in decision-making processes.

Member Fine Walsh echoed these sentiments, suggesting that the assembly should respect the community's right to vote on the initiative. He noted that the current approach to governance is not typical and that the assembly should consider the community's perspective on how to proceed.

The assembly also addressed the historical context of the issue, with Member Lynn recalling that the matter originated in the old city of Petersburg and has been in place for approximately 20 years. Members unanimously agreed on the importance of allowing the borough's citizens to decide on the matter.

However, the motion to advance the initiative failed due to a lack of quorum, highlighting the challenges faced by the assembly in reaching decisions.

In new business, the assembly introduced Ordinance 2024-12, which proposes the issuance of up to $4.5 million in general obligation bonds for public school capital improvements. If approved in three readings, this ordinance will present a ballot proposition to voters during the municipal election scheduled for October 1, 2024. The assembly is set to discuss this ordinance further in upcoming meetings.