To the Editor:

I'm writing today to express my concerns about the proposition to build a new K-2 school to replace the current K-2 school, Brayton Elementary. There are several reasons why voters should vote "No" on this proposal: the declining school population, the tax burden on the citizens of North Adams and our crumbling infrastructure.

It was projected that by the time the build is completed, there will be only 250 children attending this school. In addition to that, the cost of the bond (approximately $270 on average per year) will be pushed to the taxpayers of North Adams.

The tax increase of $270 is really for the next few years, but with taking a $20 million loan for 30 years that number could easily grow to a 10 percent or more tax increase over the longevity of the loan. Forcing taxpayers to foot the bill for the next 30 years. The reason this tax increase will happen is because of the decreasing tax base of the city. When there's not enough people to cover the bill for the school, the taxes will inevitably go up. This tax increase will affect the elderly who are in a fixed income, and tenants that pay rent and already struggling to pay the rent because of taxes and inflation.

Second reason this proposal is not a great idea to go through with is we already have several schools that could be renovated and reused. Brayton is only 30 years old. Most schools in this area are 50 years or older and aren't going through a new school process or even a renovation. It would be in our city's best interest to reinvest in the infrastructure we currently have. We could rebuild Brayton to make it friendly and probably reduce the cost of the build, that was also suggested in several proposals but the city opted to move forward with trying to build a new school.

Lastly instead of spending $65 million on a new school, we should instead take the grant money and reinvest it into our failing infrastructure. (Editor's note: MSBA money can only be used for the Greylock project.)

There's been several complaints of fire hydrants not working in town, which has led to the destruction of several homes over the past few years. Also with the roads and waterways in North Adams deteriorating, the money would be better spent on rebuilding our failing infrastructure and trying to attract new business to bring new families into the city and expand the tax base.

In conclusion, it would be in the city's best interest not to build a new school given the fact that the town isn't currently generating enough tax revenue to fix its failing infrastructure. Bonding a $65 million new school project which will inevitably cost more than the initial $65 million estimate will place a considerable burden on North Adams taxpayers. I propose focusing on rebuilding the community by investing in our failing infrastructure and starting from a ground up approach. We could revitalize the existing school structures where possible. This would save money, keep our taxes where they are and reinvest in the future of this city.

Please consider voting "No" on Oct. 8.

Scott Berglund
North Adams, Mass.

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