WASHINGTON, D.C. – September 30, 2013 – (RealEstateRama) — Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman, Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli and Assemblywoman Donna Simon, all R-Somerset, Hunterdon, Mercer and Middlesex, voiced their approval for last Tuesday’s vote in Lambertville, Stockton and West Amwell that will consolidate four school districts. The public question received the support of 86 percent of those who cast a vote.

“The residents of these communities made a tough but commendable decision this week, setting aside feelings of tradition and Home Rule for a more efficient and sustainable school system that’s better prepared to serve their children for decades to come,” said Bateman. “By eliminating redundant services and pooling educational resources, this consolidated district will benefit taxpayers and enhance educational opportunities for their children. This consolidated district should serve as a model to other communities of the progress that can be achieved by working together.”

School officials began considering the South Hunterdon consolidation in 2007. Currently, municipalities send middle-school students and high-school students to South Hunterdon High School while maintaining elementary schools in their own school districts.

“The merger of municipalities is not the only path to lessening the burden of property taxes,” said Ciattarelli. “Regionalizing municipal services and consolidating school districts are also effective strategies for saving property tax dollars and improving the quality of services. The citizens of these three communities are to be applauded for their overwhelming endorsement of smaller and more efficient governance of their school system.”

Voter approval will result in the merger of South Hunterdon High School and Lambertville, Stockton and West Amwell Township schools into a single K-12 district.

“The credit for this merger goes to the voters, school officials, teachers and the families of students who realize the benefits of creating one school district,” said Simon. “Merging or consolidating services is becoming more than a concept. When voters are presented with facts that show efficiencies can be achieved through consolidation without impacting their quality of life, they will make the right choice. Students, parents and taxpayers will benefit from the synergies that result from this merger.”