On June 14 there are two questions on the ballot pertaining to the local school budget. The first is requesting your approval of the annual sum deemed appropriately balanced by our Town Council. The second is asking if you wish to Retain Your Right to Vote on the issue of Scarborough’s annual school budget. The exact wording is along the lines of “Do you wish to continue the budget validation referendum process in the Scarborough School Administrative Unit for an additional three years?”

If the Yes votes are in the majority, then the community continues to have a direct voice in the approval of the annual school budget for the next three years.

If the No votes are in the majority, then the Town Council sets the level of annual school budget without public approval for at least the next three years. If the community voting privilege is forfeited, then to regain this voting right (after the three year minimum), a citizen-initiated referendum vote on the matter is required. Getting such a restoration vote on the ballot involves an onerous process that requires signature gathering in accordance with state law.

Please vote Yes (to continue the budget validation process) and to Retain Your Right to Vote on June 14 or before via absentee ballot. I greatly value my right to vote, and sincerely hope I am not in the minority.

John Frazier?
Scarborough