Brighton Patch Readers Criticize $88.4 Million Bond Issue

Recently, Brighton Patch posted an article laying out the facts of the $88.4 million Brighton Area Schools bond issue: two series of bonds that will last 33 years, estimated annual, monthly and daily costs if the bond were to pass as well as a detailed list of how the money would be spent.

The comment section of the article caught fire with more than 50 comments from concerned parents, residents, taxpayers and business owners debating whether the schools need the $88.4 million.

Brighton Patch reader questioned the need for such a large bond issue.

"$88.4 million," he said. "Do we really need a new swimming pool? $9.4 million for new athletic facilities? Give me a break. How about getting back to basics...the three 'R's'? All this stuff is pure fluff and not needed. I truly pray that the good folks of Brighton have thier thinking caps on and vote no on this foolishness. Send them back to the drawing board to re-submit a bond request that deals with what is really needed...not all the goodies the Brighton Schools wish they could have. Fix what needs fixing - nothing more. The tired old refrain of 'it's for the Children' is really wearing thin."

Brighton Patch reader commented on the article, suggesting that those in doubt to tour the district buildings and see the conditions for themselves.

"If you are going to do the upgrades, they must be done right," Williamson said. "We are losing students everyday to Hartland, which has no problem supporting a large bond for their area. The luxury of a vote is the ability for each of us to have or own opinion. I have family members that come to school events and cannot believe the condition of our buildings. When was the last time anything was done? 25 years ago.$88 million is what it is going to take to bring Brighton back."

Williamson also said that blaming mismanagement is no longer an excuse, as the current superintendent, Greg Gray, is doing a great job.

"It's time to move forward and create an amazing learning experience for our future leaders," she said. "By the way, my children will be graduating and I still say vote yes!"

What are your thoughts about the bond issue? Will you be voting for or against it on May 8?