Voters send mixed message to board

| 29 Sep 2011 | 08:31

    Budget rejected, incubents elected WEST MILFORD — Residents voted down the school budget for next year casting 1,621 votes against it compared to 1,338 in favor. Two separate questions on the ballot asked for additional money for various items that could not fit into the budget. They were put into separate questions because the state law S1701 ties annual increases of the general fund to the consumer price index, which last year rose 4.04 percent. Voters rejected both questions by nearly a 2 to 1 ratio. Despite the public’s disapproval of the budget, two incumbent board members handily won their seats back. There were three positions on the ballot and a field of seven candidates from which to choose. Board member David Pry opted not to seek reelection. Incumbents Greg Bailey and Drew Murray garnered the most votes with 1,372 and 1,169 respectively. Newcomer Michelle Fenwick also snagged a seat with 1,138 votes. Bailey has served on the board for 10 years. The failed general budget represented an average tax increase of about $184. It will now go to the town board, where it will be reviewed and possibly cut.