On Feb. 25 Canastota taxpayers were asked to cast their vote for the new school project that would have cost them $24.9 million out of the proposed $59.9 million needed to complete the project. The capital project was then defeated, with most voters citing the expense as the reason they didn’t agree with the proposal.
Citing a need for more classroom space and with significant concerns regarding the safety of the Peterboro Street School, Superintendant Frederick Bragan was hopeful for a positive outcome from voters. The project would have also included a new transportation center, as well as renovations to the Roberts Street School.
With enrollment rising, an aging facility and lack of proper space for students, Bragan is not ready to give up. “We will get back together with an expanded board, the master planning committee and architect to figure out what our next step will be.”
It is estimated that the downed project would have cost taxpayers an additional $231 per $100,000 assessed value.
According to the Madison County Board of Elections, there are 5,780 eligible voters in the Canastota School District.
