School board faces backlash over controversial lease funding for roofing and HVAC upgrades

In a recent joint meeting of the Timberlane Regional School District's Budget Committee and the School Board, tensions flared over the legality and appropriateness of a significant lease agreement. The discussion, held on December 16, 2024, revealed deep divisions among board members regarding the use of funds for roofing and HVAC improvements, which some argued should not fall under equipment leasing.

One board member expressed strong concerns, stating that the lease was misrepresented to avoid the necessary two-thirds majority vote, which ultimately led to its passage at just 56%. The member criticized the decision to categorize roofing as equipment, arguing that such a classification stretches the truth and undermines the integrity of the funding process. "Roofing has nothing to do with equipment," they asserted, emphasizing that the funds should have been allocated through a bond rather than a lease.

The debate intensified as members discussed the implications of the 2014 legislative amendment that expanded the scope of lease agreements to include building improvements related to equipment installation. While some defended the legality of the lease, others questioned whether it aligned with sound public policy. The board member's frustration was palpable as they described the situation as a "waste of time and money," suggesting that the community had been misled by contractors promising energy savings.

As the meeting progressed, the conversation shifted to citizen petitions and the process for amending them. Legal clarifications were provided, indicating that while citizens could propose changes during the deliberative session, no amendments could be made during the current public hearing. This procedural detail underscored the importance of community engagement in decision-making, with board members emphasizing the need for transparency and informed discussion.

The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency surrounding the upcoming deadlines for petition warrant articles, leaving the door open for further community input and potential modifications to the proposals at hand. As the Timberlane Regional School District navigates these complex issues, the outcome will undoubtedly shape the future of funding and infrastructure improvements within the district.