School Budget Passes in Berkeley Heights; Beisser, Crisonino re-elected

Residents throughout Berkeley Heights came out and voted in overwhelming support of the Berkeley Heights Board of Education’s proposed budget throughout the afternoon of Wednesday, April 27.

The budget passed with 1432 votes in favor and 884 opposed, a margin of 548 votes. This occurred despite mixed comments about the budget from voting residents throughout the day on Wednesday.

“I think that corporate America has gone through massive changes in the pensions in the last ten or fifteen years. I work for a major Fortune 50 corporation, and we lost our pension three years ago, we’re obligated to move to a 401K,” said a Berkeley Heights resident who did not wish to be identified. “It’s not great, but that’s what it is. I think that on the municipal side and on the government side, if that’s what business is doing, then I think that trend has to continue.”

Other residents, however, cited the district’s need to provide for its children as their reason for approving the budget.

“For me, it’s all about what we’re giving our children in our schools. The reason we moved to Berkeley Heights was for the school system,” said Berkeley Heights resident Maxine Levine. “I think what they’ve cut from the budget now to get it where it is, is enough. I don’t think there should be any more cuts, which is why I am for the budget being voted in.”

“My kids were just telling me today how, in their art classes in the high school, they’ve already run out of paint and other supplies. There’s no more money now, and here it is April, to increase those supplies to allow them to finish their work,” continued Levine. “We’re cutting so many things, and I think that we have to remember the importance of filling out a child’s education. That’s one of the advantages of living in Berkeley Heights.”

On Wednesday, the public also voted to fill two vacant seats on the Board of Education. Both current Board of Education President Paul Beisser and Dr. Gerard Crisonino, who were up for re-election, saw overwhelming public support in defeating challenger Ronald Davison. Beisser received 1414 votes, while Crisonino received 1311. Davison would received 678 votes.

Dr. Crisonino reached out to Patch on Wednesday night after learning of his re-election.

“On a personal note, I want to thank my opponent Ron Davison for his commitment to serve the community, and most especially congratulate my fellow board member, Paul Beisser, on his re-election,” said Crisonino. “Paul embodies what every Board Member should strive to achieve. As for me, I am truly honored to be allowed to serve on the board for another term and warmly thank all of those who have allowed me this privilege.”

Although Crisonino is overjoyed at the news of an approved budget and a successful re-election campaign, he acknowledges that the district still has work to do.

“While this is a time for celebrating, I am most cognizant that the road ahead will not always be smooth,” said Crisonino. “However, under the guidance of my fellow dedicated board members, knowledgeable administrators, exceptional PTO leaders, and engaged students and families, I know that we can all work together to guarantee a continuation of academic excellence here in Berkeley Heights.”