To the editor:
I have been reading e-mails and letters to the editor of various newspapers over the course of the past two weeks. I am dismayed at the misleading statements that are being used and the "us vs. them" mentality that is pervading our towns.
One person compares the anticipated cost-per-pupil should the override pass with the current state average. Given that many communities in the commonwealth, not just Hamilton and Wenham, are seeking overrides, the statewide average cost for next year will also balloon. To make such glaring comparisons in a misleading way is wrong.
Another fallacy is the lack of importance put on the NEASC accreditation process. Yes, it is true that it is voluntary. However, it is also true that colleges and universities throughout the country look at the information this group provides and weigh it in their decision-making for the future of our children. Also, it is important to understand that the NEASC evaluation letters are sent out cyclically; last year's NEASC letter was received at the same time (end of April) as when this year's letter arrived. The timing of the letter was not politically motivated, and NEASC has no idea when our towns hold our override votes.
There is the notion that, although several communities seek overrides for the very same reasons we do, it is primarily through "mismanagement" of the Hamilton-Wenham school committee and selectmen that we have not got the funds necessary to cover increasing expenses within the 2.5-percent annual limit. To claim that the timing of this override request, given the costs of fuel and the generally poor economy is irresponsible, is ludicrous. To blame them for asking, finally, for an override amount that does not cut services after six straight years of cuts, is misguided.
I also wanted to point out that our contracts with our teachers mirror a nationwide kind of contract. Hamilton-Wenham teachers' pay is structured in the same way as that of every teacher in Massachusetts and in the same way as most municipal employees.
I have also heard it stated that we are trying to create a "private school" atmosphere in Hamilton-Wenham and that as soon as our children are educated, we will vacate the area, leaving the burden to the long-term residents. What hogwash! I love living here and plan to stay well into my "twilight years."
The state is mandating special education services and programs and giving our town little or no monies to cover them (other towns get upwards of 50 percent to 80 percent of their school budgets covered). Other factors, such as our fervent desire to keep our beautiful open spaces, also contribute to the lack of commercial revenue.
No one wants to pay more in taxes, but right now I don't see another way. I cannot make a decision that will hurt my children, or my neighbor's children. I recognize that these are difficult and uncertain economic times, but I ask you to make this important investment in our community.
PAUL DRISCOLL
South Hamilton
