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Merger vote to be held Thursday

The vote on the proposal to merge Livingston Manor and Roscoe central school districts via centralization will take place from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19, at each of the district’s gymnasiums.

The merger aims to increase academic and extracurricular opportunities for students at all levels as well as provide financial stability for the community.

There are two meetings left where the public can learn more about the proposal.

  • Dec. 16: LMCS Board of Education meeting, 6 p.m.

  • Dec. 17: RCS Board of Education meeting, 4:30 p.m.

To vote on the merger, residents must be 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, a district resident for at least 30 days and be registered to vote at their county board of elections, which will automatically register them to vote at their district, or be registered with their district.

Also on the ballot will be two questions on the composition and terms of the new board, if the merger is approved. The board can be five, seven or nine members, and the terms can be three, four or five years.

Voters will also be asked to fill out an exit survey.

“This vote will determine the future of the education of our students,” said John Evans, shared superintendent of both districts. “I encourage everyone to come out to the polls on Thursday to let their voices be heard.”

More information about the merger was distributed in a newsletter mailed to all residents and can be found on the merger page of each district’s website. Questions or concerns may be directed to Evans at john.evans@lmcs.us, jevans@roscoe.k12.ny.us, 607-498-4126, ext. 6105, or 845-439-4400, ext. 1201, or a member of either district’s school board.