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"There is a basic issue with the new approval process for moving school board elections in S3148/A4394 to November general elections, where the municipal body - all on its own - can approve a November election for a school board, regardless of the board of education or public sentiment via petition.
GSCS believes this imposition of a municipal governing body over a school board and/or public vote is a first. The loss of checks and balance, as well as a new precedence where one governing body can overrule another requires a detailed analysis..." (This testimony was offered before the Senate State Governmnet, Wagering, Tourism and Historic Preservation Committee on December 15, 2011.)
Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
December 15, 2011: S3148 – Norcross
Garden State Coalition of Schools/Lynne Strickland – GSCS Concerns
There is a basic issue with the new approval process for moving school board elections in S3148/A4394 to November general elections, where the municipal body - all on its own - can approve a November election for a school board, regardless of the board of education or public sentiment via petition.
GSCS believes this imposition of a municipal governing body over a school board and/or public vote is a first. The loss of checks and balance, as well as a new precedence where one governing body can overrule another requires a detailed vetting.
GSCS feels this major kind of change is radical, sets precedence and needs in depth conversation. We hope the Legislature does not rush this well-intended bill through the lame duck session.