Following an extensive education and outreach effort by City staff over the past several months, eligible voters went to the polls today to cast their ballots on four referendum questions. The questions addressed the City's ability to seek approval to borrow money for several capital projects, including the proposed stormwater pond project at the former Rodney Site.
The first question on the ballot sought borrowing authorization of up to $6.5 million for the purchase of land, demolition of existing structures, environmental remediation and construction of a stormwater pond and multi-use path at the former Rodney dorm site. The second question sought borrowing authorization of up to $2.5 million for additional park amenities at the former Rodney dorm site, including a walking path, pavilions, fishing pier and several educational components. Questions three and four sought borrowing authorization of up to $18.625 million for several water and sewer utility projects, and other Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects.
Unofficial results are as follows:
Question | For | Against |
1. Rodney Stormwater Facility ($6.5 million) | 1792 | 405 |
2. Rodney Park Amenities ($2.5 million) | 1471 | 702 |
3. 2018-2022 Water/Sewer CIP Projects ($15.625 million) | 1815 | 373 |
4. 2018-2022 CIP Projects ($3 million) | 1556 | 586 |
Reaction from Acting City Manager Tom Coleman:
"This was an opportunity for Newark residents to have their voices heard and they took advantage of it. The outreach and education efforts staff utilized over the past several months played an important role in the outcome of this referendum and I'm extremely proud to be part of such a dedicated team. This is just the first step and we look forward to working with Council and keeping residents engaged as we move forward on the various projects."
Results will be officially certified by the Election Board on Thursday, June 21.