Let's Have a Look at Others.....

http://www2.dpi.state.wi.us/sfsref/ref_Home.aspx

Several other districts have proposed referenda this year -- but none even come close to the amount Beloit is requesting. Even more interesting is the way the others have proceeded.

If you visit the link above, you will see that 2 districts, Hudson and Ripon, are purchasing land for a new school before they propose a referendum for building a new school. That makes sense! Tell the people where you want to build and how much the land will cost. If they approve that, then proceed with another proposal to build the school.

Bloomer and Oshkosh districts are planning to build a new school. Both make it very clear where the new schools will be located. Bloomer also makes clear what will happen to the old school site.

Now look at Beloit's proposal. There is nothing that says where the new school will be located -- just that we will be "acquiring land and constructing a new intermediate school". School locations are important. Access, safety, and transportation costs are just a few things that deserve careful consideration, studying, and community input. If Beloit passes this referendum, taxpayers and parents will have absolutely no say in the location of the new school or the plans for the sites of the schools that will close. We will essentially be writing a blank check and agreeing to whatever plan the board develops after they borrow the 70 million dollars.