Sample, Vote-By-Mail Ballots Available For Westfield School Election

WESTFIELD, NJ — Sample and vote-by-mail ballots are now available for the upcoming Westfield School Board election on Tuesday, April 16.

"This resource allows voters to familiarize themselves with the choices they will encounter on Election Day, enabling them to make informed decisions that reflect their values and priorities for the education system in Westfield," said Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi. "I encourage all eligible voters in Westfield to take advantage of the resources available and participate actively in this important election. By exercising your right to vote, you play a vital role in shaping the future of education in your community."

The Westfield Election will include the vote for three School Board candidates. Candidates include:

• Brad Schaeffer
• Leila Morrelli(incumbent)
• Julie Steinberg
• Sonal Patel(incumbent)
• Mark Shore
• Lindsay Bezalel

Current board member Sahar Aziz is not seeking re-election.

Additionally, residents will vote on a question for "Additional Spending Proposal." Here is the language for the question:

RESOLVED, that there should be raised an additional $1,675,397 for the General Fund in the same school year (2024-2025). These taxes will be used exclusively for the retention of 3 elementary teachers, 2 intermediate teachers, 2 high school teachers, and health benefits for the 7 current staff members. The proposal also includes the addition of 1 Supervisor for the Special Services Department, 1 Assistant Buildings and Grounds Supervisor, 2 Maintenance/Groundskeepers, 1 high school teacher for additional electives, funding in the amount of $125,000 to enhance the stipends in the paraprofessional contract, 3 Enrichment/Intervention teachers at the elementary level, 3 part time security guards for the schools, and health benefits for the 8 additional staff members. Approval of these taxes will result in a permanent increase to the tax base. These proposed additional expenditures are in addition to those necessary to achieve the New Jersey Student Learning Standards.

Click here for more information on the Westfield budget vote.

The sample ballot provides voters with essential information regarding the candidates running for the School Board as well as details on the question included in the Westfield Election.

Vote-by-mail ballots are also currently being mailed out to eligible voters to vote from home. Vote-by-mail ballots are also available at the Clerk’s office in Westfield.

For additional information and updates regarding the Westfield School Board election or information on all County Clerk programs and services, visit online at ucnj.org/county-clerk or call 908-527-4787.

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