Friday, November 9, 2012

Withdrawal vote: 'We can move forward together'

By Samantha Stephens
http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20121108-NEWS-211080358
 
ARUNDEL — Arundel voted Tuesday to remain part of RSU 21 by a narrow margin of 125 votes, providing further proof of a town divided.

There were 1,169 voters in favor of remaining with RSU 21 and 1,044 voters in favor of withdrawal, with nearly 75 percent of Arundel's 3,000 registered voters casting ballots.

The decision comes after a lengthy battle that has pitted neighbor against neighbor and deeply divided the community.

"We can finally move past the question if we're going to be part of RSU 21 and actually become part of RSU 21," said Town Manager Todd Shea after the votes were counted.

Shea said that Arundel has "never fully accepted" being part of RSU 21 and he hopes that the town begins to come together and move forward.

"Our job is now how to go forward as a community and exercise the town's local control in RSU 21 issues," Shea said.

RSU 21 Superintendent Andrew Dolloff said he was very pleased with Arundel's decision and looks forward to continuing working with the "extremely talented" staff at Mildred L. Day School.

"Fortunately this decision eliminates disruptive changes that would occur if the district needed restructuring," he said.

Dolloff said RSU 21 is always looking to improve and offer new opportunities for students and he looks forward to continuing working with students and parents in Arundel.

Kevin Crowley, principal at Mildred L. Day, said he hopes this decision begins the healing process for Arundel.

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