CATO - Not originally from Ira, Jeffery Grant was drawn to the town's strong sense of community. Now, he wants to represent the community as a Cato-Meridian school board member.
"We choose to live here and make this our home," Grant said. "And it is this community and our pride that keeps us here."
Whether they grew up in Cato or not, all seven school board candidates delivered a similar message at the district's "Meet The Candidates" forum Monday.
Running against Grant for three seats in the upcoming election is incumbent Margaret Meccariello and local residents Dean Cummins, Susan Teska, Thomas Hayden, Roxanne Miller and Heidi Dennison.
While each candidate touched upon a number of topics, all seven were extremely concerned about the district's financial situation, and the challenge of getting a budget passed. Cato-Meridian's budget was failed by the public twice last year, forcing the district to operate on a contingency budget, which eliminated all athletics and extra-curricular activities.
"I know the taxpayers cannot sustain large tax increases," Miller said. "We need to get the maximum aid we can and spend every dollar wisely."
Miller has worked as an accountant and bookkeeper, and thinks that her diverse background and strong knowledge of financial matters will work to the board's advantage.
Teska, who has a strong background in sales and marketing, has also put together multi-million dollar budgets and has similar goals.
"I think my time and talent will be of use to this community," Teska said. "I have a personal interest in the community, and I am confident we can bring the district back to where it use to be."
Board candidates also discussed opening up the lines of communication between the school, the board and the community, something people in the community say has been lacking.
"This is the area I see as the weakest," Dennison said. "This is what needs to be worked on so we can continue to move forward."
While each candidate recognizes they will be joining the board during a difficult time, they feel they can help the district and the community heal in the aftermath of a failed budget and a difficult financial year.
"It is time we move forward," Meccariello said. "I'd like to see Cato once again be known for the accomplishments of our students."
Board member Deborah J. Kolb is not seeking re-election. The third seat up was formerly held by Robert J. Vogel, who resigned in January.
The candidate who fills the remainder of Vogel's term will only serve for one year before having to run again.
"Board member are elected to represent the people," Cummins said. "I don't have all the answers, but sometimes it just takes a little common sense."
Staff writer Ashley Lipsky can be reached at 253-5311 ext. 235
or ashley.lipsky@lee.net
Whether they grew up in Cato or not, all seven school board candidates delivered a similar message at the district's "Meet The Candidates" forum Monday.
Running against Grant for three seats in the upcoming election is incumbent Margaret Meccariello and local residents Dean Cummins, Susan Teska, Thomas Hayden, Roxanne Miller and Heidi Dennison.
While each candidate touched upon a number of topics, all seven were extremely concerned about the district's financial situation, and the challenge of getting a budget passed. Cato-Meridian's budget was failed by the public twice last year, forcing the district to operate on a contingency budget, which eliminated all athletics and extra-curricular activities.
"I know the taxpayers cannot sustain large tax increases," Miller said. "We need to get the maximum aid we can and spend every dollar wisely."
Miller has worked as an accountant and bookkeeper, and thinks that her diverse background and strong knowledge of financial matters will work to the board's advantage.
Teska, who has a strong background in sales and marketing, has also put together multi-million dollar budgets and has similar goals.
"I think my time and talent will be of use to this community," Teska said. "I have a personal interest in the community, and I am confident we can bring the district back to where it use to be."
Board candidates also discussed opening up the lines of communication between the school, the board and the community, something people in the community say has been lacking.
"This is the area I see as the weakest," Dennison said. "This is what needs to be worked on so we can continue to move forward."
While each candidate recognizes they will be joining the board during a difficult time, they feel they can help the district and the community heal in the aftermath of a failed budget and a difficult financial year.
"It is time we move forward," Meccariello said. "I'd like to see Cato once again be known for the accomplishments of our students."
Board member Deborah J. Kolb is not seeking re-election. The third seat up was formerly held by Robert J. Vogel, who resigned in January.
The candidate who fills the remainder of Vogel's term will only serve for one year before having to run again.
"Board member are elected to represent the people," Cummins said. "I don't have all the answers, but sometimes it just takes a little common sense."
Staff writer Ashley Lipsky can be reached at 253-5311 ext. 235
or ashley.lipsky@lee.net
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