SOUTHINGTON, CT — Southington voters on Tuesday, Nov. 3, rejected an $86.7 million plan to rebuild and reconfigure the town's elementary schools, 10,531 "no" to 9,432 "yes," according to unofficial results posted by the Secretary of the State's office. Local incumbents from both parties also kept their seats in the state legislature.
Referendum Fails on Kelley, South End and Flanders Plan
The question asked whether the town should appropriate $86,675,560 for the Elementary Facilities Plan and authorize $86,675,560 in bonds and notes to finance it. The plan called for a new Kelley Elementary School, a fit-out of South End Elementary School, and the closing of Flanders Elementary School, with that building repurposed for municipal and community use.
The Southington Outsider reported that Kelley and Oshana elementary schools had the highest numbers of "yes" votes. Every other polling place recorded more "no" votes. The outlet said the price tag may have been a factor in the outcome.
Parent Seth Korn, whose two children attend Kelley, said he was disappointed but hopes residents and leaders stay engaged. Megan Mele, who had campaigned for a "yes" vote, said she respects the town's decision and wants quick talks on a workable path forward.
Incumbents Hold Seats in Legislature
State Rep. Chris Poulos, a Democrat, won re-election in the 81st House District, defeating Republican Timothy J. Wilk 6,351 to 4,655, according to unofficial results posted by the Secretary of the State's office. Wilk conceded and wished Poulos well, the Southington Outsider reported.
In House districts that reach beyond Southington, the state's unofficial results show Democrat Rebecca Martinez beating Republican Richard Mette 5,398 to 4,336 in the 22nd, Republican Gale Mastrofrancesco beating Democrat Cheryl Hilton 6,282 to 4,055 in the 80th, and Republican Donna Veach edging Democrat Linda Pierce 5,495 to 5,068 in the 30th.
Republican Sen. Rob Sampson kept the 16th State Senate District, 20,458 to 19,952 over Democrat Jack Perry, though Perry carried Southington 10,543 to 9,890.
Statewide, Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont won re-election over Republican Ryan Fazio, Patch reported. Southington voters favored Fazio, 10,664 to 9,986, across both candidates' party lines.