Herald Endorsement

Vote ‘yes’ to Lawrence budget; re-elect Forman and Mansdorf

Posted

The proposed 2020-21 Lawrence School District budget of $102.49 million is just $41,000 larger than the current spending plan, but boasts new programs and the expansion of existing ones — a list including math, driver’s ed, professional development for teachers, instruction for students with dyslexia, and parental workshops.

Voters are also being asked to approve a Building Capital Reserve Fund, not to exceed $4 million, to finance infrastructure improvements: air conditioning at the high school, classroom and cafeteria renovations at the middle school and parking and playground enhancements at the Lawrence Primary School.

We urge the approval of both the budget and the reserve fund.

Longtime Board of Education Trustees Murray Forman and Dr. Asher Mansdorf are being challenged by Amil Virani and Asher Matathias, respectively. Forman and Mansdorf have helped guide the district through several thorny years, and the schools are reaping the benefits, ranging from improved fiscal health to renovated buildings and rising academic performance.

We expect them to make the most of their combined experience to help settle the protracted contract battle with the teachers’ association and continue the judicious use of taxpayer dollars.

Virani is a young man who has admirably become involved in civic matters, attending board meetings and asking questions. We encourage him to remain involved.

Matathias is another matter. After a brief lull, his boorish behavior at meetings has returned. His upbraiding of officials needs to end. His rants at meetings and in emails have become a nuisance, and are not consistent with the school community’s outlook.

The Herald supports the re-elections of Forman and Mansdorf.

Support library budget
Peninsula Public Library officials have proposed a financially sound $3.11 million spending plan.

The library has remained viable to its patrons by offering virtual programs and services throughout the pandemic.

Library Trustee Audrian Gray is running for her seat unopposed, and we encourage residents to give her, and the budget, their approval.