Saddle Brook, NJ – Voters rejected Saddle Brook School District’s proposal to borrow funds for critical building repairs and improvements, according to preliminary election results.

The tally as of Tuesday night included 1,115 votes opposed and 599 in favor for Question 1; 1,069 votes opposed and 627 in favor for Question 2; and 1,131 votes opposed and 561 in favor for Question 3. The totals could change marginally over the next few days as officials count mail-in ballots that were postmarked by the election date, and verify and tally provisional ballots.

“We thank the community for taking the time to learn about the proposal and voting,” said Superintendent Toni Violetti. “While we are disappointed by this outcome, we will carefully consider the community’s feedback and weigh our options for funding needed building projects. In the meantime, our priority remains providing students with the high-quality education that they deserve and that our community expects.”

The district structured the referendum into three questions so the community could consider various projects individually. The $58.6 million proposal would have received nearly $5 million in state aid if it had been approved.

The improvements would have included a middle school addition to serve grades 6-8; two athletic turf fields and lights; safety and security enhancements; infrastructure upgrades; a new Media Center at Helen I. Smith Elementary School; classroom renovations at Washington Elementary School to expand the pre-kindergarten program; interior restoration at Coolidge School; and more space for special services and new programs.