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Give money back
Dear Editor,
Many thanks to Neighbor News; a genuine community sound board. In March 2007, four letters criticizing Rockaway Township’s school budget were published including one suggesting a staff reduction of 26 teachers for an annual saving of $1.3 million.
The letter prompted phone calls and eventual action by the RTBOE. Benefits however, weren’t revealed until recently. New Department of Education reports show a staff reduction of 64 teachers, three and a half clerks, with the addition of one administrator and one support staff (net 65 1/2). Public pressure prevailed.
But the job isn’t finished yet; a property tax reduction must be realized. We want our money back! I calculate annual payroll savings of $3.2 million plus benefits. Secondly, we need to remind the BOE of their oversight function. Board members should block future over expenditures without public involvement.
Ted Doty
Rockaway Township
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