During the Exeter School Board voting meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 19, it was recommended that the school board approve a transfer of $1.5 million of surplus funds from the general fund to the capital reserve fund. The agenda item created discussion among school board members, which resulted in two failed amendments.
David S. Bender, board vice president, and Michael B. Jupina Jr., board member, both suggested separate amendments to the proposal. Jupina’s request created the most discord around the table.
Jupina suggested to offer a one-time refund to taxpayers at $157.89 per household, instead of initiating a transfer to the capital reserve fund. Jupina hoped the school board would pass his request at the taxpayer’s benefit.
“I’ll be the first one to say that I think the school district needs that $150 more than I do,” said Russell J. Diesinger, school board member.
Jupina tried to rationalize Diesinger’s thought by understanding the demographics within their community. Solicitor Ellis Katz was unsure if the board had a right to refund the money.
“My only comment is I’d be a little uncomfortable voting to approve this amendment simply because I’m not sure I fully understand the overall impact both legally and financially on the school district,” said Dr. David R. Hemberger, president.
Unfortunately, a motion to table the matter could not suggested after Anne Guydish disclosed that the school district needed to finalize its financial statements and the auditors were waiting on the boards’ decision. The annual financial reports are due to the state by Oct. 31.
Jupina urged that the board members leave this to decision of the taxpayers; however, when it came time to vote-the amendment was shot down with a definitive “no.” The unanimous, and firm vote against Jupina was enough to shock a member of the audience, who could be heard uttering the word “wow.”
After the failure of both amendments, the board voted 6-2 to approve the original proposal. Bender and Jupina voted no. Dr. Ann M. Hearing was absent.
In other matters, the board heard from Greg Fries, Reiffton School principal. He noted the school was in its third year of the Character COWnts, a program which was professionally designed to meet the needs of the students at the Reiffton School. Students will receive a total of eight anti-bullying and pro-social lessons from the program. Fries concluded that Chris Grabenstein, author and co-author with James Patterson, is scheduled to make a visit to the school on Jan. 30, 2018.
Township Supervisor John Cusatis and Christopher M. Winters, chief of staff for state Rep. Thomas Caltagirone, encouraged board members to declare September as pediatric cancer awareness month. Both men urged board members to show their solidarity by joining other districts and municipalities by wearing gold on Sept. 29.
