A tactical slate is deceptive and doesn’t serve our kids

Dear Editor,

With the important Bedford Central School District Board of Education vote coming up on Tuesday, May 20^th, I write with a word of caution to my fellow voters to be careful of contrived groupings of candidates. When candidates—who previously ran against each other—unite under one slate, one must question their motives. I would assert that this is no longer about outcomes for our students, or about prudent appropriation of tax dollars, but about the consolidation of power and influence. Furthermore, a voting block of four secures an instant majority of the seven-member board—thereby removing the democratic function a panel of seven independently-minded members would bring. Voters should do their own research on each of the candidates and especially the record of the incumbents. Those paying attention to recent board meetings will be aware that the narrative from the slate around security, resourcing and delivery on promises is far from the reality.  

I look forward to casting three of my votes for Leo Sposato, Eric Florio and Rob Mazurek. I’ve had the opportunity to speak with all of them individually about their visions for the district, and was impressed by their thoughtfulness, energy and commitment. A decorated police officer, a teacher with decades of administrative and classroom experience, and an accomplished finance professional. In my assessment, each would bring invaluable real-world perspective to the board—on safety, student well-being, practical application of policy, and a pragmatic yet balanced approach to budgeting.

Those running should leave the Machiavellian political gamesmanship to the D.C. operatives and we, as part of an engaged electorate, should be trusted to bring our own critical thinking skills to the voting booth.

-Andrew Weir, Mount Kisco