POLL: Renovate All Six Elementary Schools?

In March, Salem voters will have on a plan to renovate the , and Elementary Schools at a price tag of a $21.5 million bond.

In 2011, the , and Elementary Schools were all renovated at the cost of a $22 million bond. Passage of this year's bond, which will appear as Article 2 on the warrant, would complete Phase II of the Salem School District's plan for renovating school buildings.

In future years, and would also be subject to renovation votes.

Proponents of Article 2 have stated it will complete the elementary school portion of the master plan for renovations as set forth by the district. They have also stressed the importance of infrastructure improvements to all three schools, making an investment in the community and preserving neighborhood schools throughout Salem. Many of these points have been made by members of the Strenghten Our Schools Salem advocacy group.

Those opposing the full six-school plan have pointed to an idea originally promoted by School Board member Bernie Campbell, made available by the Salem NH Taxpayers Association. Under this, Soule and Fisk would be renovated, Haigh would be closed and further additions would be made to Lancaster and Barron. This idea is based on diminishing enrollment projections over the next several years.

Campbell himself has backed away from this idea, saying last week he supports Article 2 and if Haigh has to close it could be used for other municipal purposes.

Take our poll below and comment on whether or not you support Article 2.