The Brookfield Scene
Janet, a Town of Brookfield resident, has lived in the Elmbrook area for nearly 40 years and is an avid gardener and volunteer. Her blog focuses on the city and town of Brookfield – past, present and future.
The $108.8 Million Question
By Janet Wintersberger
Tuesday, Mar 27 2007, 09:44 PM
We will soon learn the status of the $108.8 million referendum. Those favoring the referendum have been very vocal and adamant about the need. Those against the referendum have been less boisterous.
Of course, we’ve all been listening to the information the School District of Elmbrook has shared. The district is supposed to be providing factual information. Instead it seems to have become an advocate.
Last year, the district hired a community relations and marketing director. It doesn’t seem that he’s mastered the community relations portion of his job. Yes, there are the countless fact sheets, and the attempt to be the spokesperson for the district. He has taken several approaches in marketing the referendum.
First, we heard about the schools not meeting ADA standards; next, conditions that compromise the safety and security of our students; then a visual comparison of our high school buildings to other districts. District residents are warned that property values will decline due to aging high school facilities.
The Elmbrook School District is focused on a brick and mortar solution. In the meantime existing facilities have not been adequately maintained – due to revenue caps. The district seems to feel that the communities of Brookfield and Elm Grove can afford the referendum.
Yes, some homeowners are affluent. Others are not.
The quality of education is not just about the buildings.
