To the Editor:

First, I emphasize that I write this letter as an eligible voter in, and a former school board commissioner of, the Ogdensburg City School District. The opinion I express is my own, and not that of any entity with which I am associated.

On January 23, the school district is conducting a vote seeking approval for a $65.5 million capital project. I support this project, and I encourage voters in the school district to vote yes on its funding proposition.

You may obtain details about this project either at the school district’s administrative office at OFA or by going online to the school district’s website.

98% of the cost of this capital project will be covered by New York State aid, the remaining cost covered by $4 million of a capital reserve wisely funded in the past few years by the school district in anticipation of such a project. There will be no impact on the school district’s tax levy in future years if voters approve the project.

Construction of a transportation facility for the school district’s buses is a key component of this capital project. A few years ago, the school district took ownership of its student transportation system by purchasing its own school buses and hiring drivers and monitors. This decision significantly reduced transportation costs in the school district. I note that New York State annually covers 90% of school district transportation expenses.

Another component of this capital project is repair and renovation to the OFA Golden Dome, a city landmark. The dome’s roof, constructed in the early 1970s, needs renovation. Locker rooms need upgrading.

There will also be renovation and improvements at each of the school district’s schools (Madill School, Kennedy School, and Ogdensburg Free Academy). Again, details are available on the school’s website.

I was on the school district’s Board of Education at the time of its last major capital project, which voters in the school district overwhelmingly supported. I am confident the current Board of Education and administration have performed their due diligence in determining which infrastructure needs of the school district should be included in this project. I am hopeful the school district will receive a similar result from voters on this capital project.

Ballots may be cast at Ogdensburg Free Academy from noon until 9 p.m. on Tuesday, January 23.

Thank you.

Michael J. Tooley
Ogdensburg