Voters in School Administrative District 51 are learning of a referendum question likely to be on the ballot in November regarding the construction of a performing arts center. Although discussion of this issue has garnered public attention only recently, as a former board member, I can attest it has been considered for many years.

In 2003 voters approved the construction of a PAC, however, when finalizing the building plans, it was determined that actual cost was greater than the estimate; subsequently, a second referendum seeking additional funds was defeated. Since then many stakeholders have advocated for revisiting the plan for a PAC to serve the district’s curricular and the communities’ cultural needs. This shared interest has been expressed to the board repeatedly by students, parents, teachers and community members through focus groups, the strategic planning process, and dialogue sessions.

Bethany Hanley
Cumberland


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