Caldwell-West Caldwell Votes Yes to School Bond Referendum

Local residents approved a bond referendum Tuesday slated to provide upgrades to school buildings and high school athletic fields in the Caldwell-West Caldwell School District.

“Bond 2014 passed by a very large margin, and we are thankful to everyone who went out today and voted,” the district announced on its website. “Thank you!”

The $18.2 million bond referendum will have a tax impact for the average household of approximately $11 per month per household in both Caldwell and West Caldwell.

The state department of education is offering 40 percent debt service aid, which reduces the taxpayer’s obligation.

“The Caldwell-West Caldwell Board of Education strives to assess and address not only the educational needs of our students, but also the environment in which our children’s educational needs are met,” Superintendent Dr. James Heinegg said. “The 2014 bond focuses on securing the health and safety of our students, staff and the community members who use and visit our facilities.”

The bond includes upgrades to each of the district’s schools, including security cameras and recording equipment at school entrances; interior and exterior security doors; new windows at several schools; heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) upgrades district wide; a new data technology center; drainage and repairs at the high school’s Lower Field and Bonnel Field; field, track and athletic facility upgrades; and other facility repairs and upgrades.

“To the families, the staff, community members and our voting-age students -- thank you for supporting the school district and helping us to prepare for today and tomorrow, securing the health and safety of our children,” the district stated on its Facebook page.

The ballot can be seen on the district’s website along with additional bond information, photos and plans. Residents are invited to call the board offices at 973-228-6979 or email Superintendent of Schools Dr. James Heinegg at jheinegg@cwcboe.org.

Voters must be registered 29 days before the election. Absentee ballots, available online, can be mailed to the Essex County Clerks office, and must be received by Dec. 8 in order to be counted. Voter registration forms are also available online.

To the families, the staff, community members and our voting-age students -- thank you for supporting the school district and helping us to prepare for today and tomorrow, securing the health and safety of our children.