BOE referendum tracker: what was promised, and what still needs proof
The Berkeley Heights school referendum was marketed as a district-wide facilities renovation program: safer buildings, updated media and science/STEM spaces, roof and mechanical work, security and PA upgrades, and site/parking/drainage improvements. The district's materials framed the work around the theme "Invested to Include, Inspire, and Empower."
The main sales points were clear. Question 1 was presented as a zero-tax-increase package on the average assessed home because older debt service was rolling off. Question 2 was presented as an added $250.37 per year on the average assessed home.
The implementation record has started, but it is not yet fully auditable. The April 16, 2026 BOE agenda authorized the issuance and sale of $50,352,000 in School Bonds, Series 2026, for voter-approved capital improvements. That lines up with the voter-approved bond principal.
The open issue is the spending trail. Residents still need a clean dashboard or ledger that ties each contract, purchase order, invoice, payment, and change order to the ballot question, school, scope item, budget line, funding source, vote, and completion status.