By Jacquie Rath
"This was the biggest crowd we've had in the 16 years I've been here," said School District Clerk Cynthia Geones. Over 4,500 villagers voted this year, compared to 2,777 in 2005 and 1,329 in 2004. "We added extra booths and log books this year because the turnout was expected to be so large."
"I would like to thank the community for their support of education," said Superintendent of RVC Schools Dr. William Johnson. "It would have been tragic if we had to make decisions about opportunities for the students in Rockville Centre."
Additionally, both Lorrie Brady and Mark Masin, who ran unopposed for seats on the RVC Board of Education will be returning to the board in 2006-07. Both will serve three year terms. Brady received 2,696 votes and Masin received 2,091.
"I am very happy about the results," said Brady who is currently the president of the RVC Board of Education. "I would like to thank the people of Rockville Centre for their continued support of our efforts."
Also approved was a non-binding referendum to charge not-for-profit organizations for use of school district facilities. The district already charges other groups a use fee.
The Rockville Centre Library Budget for 2006-07 was also approved by a vote of 2,587 to 1,723. Incumbent library board member Eileen Burke Bucaria will return to the board for another three year term, and she will be joined by Barbara Morrissey who will fill the seat vacated by Michael Shenker. Burke Bucaria received 2,154 votes and Morrissey received 2,021. Unsuccessful candidate Bernard Mann received 857 votes, while William Victor received 582.
