To the editor:

Please vote yes on both questions. 

It is essential that we maintain our school buildings. They are old, and we must realize that old buildings require more maintenance and repair. I served on the School Committee for six years (2012-2018), and during my tenure, I was also the chair of the Facilities subcommittee. Every time we commissioned an engineering study on our buildings, the report I received was at least three inches thick with issues. Fortunately, because of broad support from both parties, we were able perform all the necessary repairs at the time such as new roofs, windows, boilers, etc. Education starts with a safe, clean and healthy environment. 

By voting yes, you will be making a statement to our elected officials and school department staff that we in Portsmouth place a high importance on student achievement. This is not about Democrats putting taxpayers further into debit. This is about our elected officials (Democrats and Republicans) providing solid leadership and executing their mission of being good stewards of our facilities. To vote no simply kicks the can down the road and subjects our students to a learning environment that is substandard at best.

Finally, let me also express my support for the senior center question. The simple fact is that our current senior center is at end of life, and really does not match the character of our town. Our seniors deserve much better. Given that taxpayers are not being asked to pay for a new facility, I do not understand why some still say to vote no. If this vote fails, at some point we will have no choice but to go out to bond and build a new facility. Just like our public school buildings, a modern senior center is an essential part of any vibrant community. 

We have smart professionals on our Town Council. I am confident that they will only enter into an agreement that is in the best interest of our citizens. If they do not get terms that are acceptable, they can just walk away. Please vote yes and help move our town forward. 

John Wojichowski

8 Eyler Drive

Portsmouth