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By Janie Dretler, Vice Chair, Sudbury Select Board – I am writing this as an individual member of the Sudbury Select Board. These views are my own.
Thank you to everyone who voted YES on December 1 to support the Haynes and Nixon school roof projects. That vote reflected a clear commitment to protecting our schools and making sound financial decisions for the town.
These roofs are nearly three decades old and well past their useful life. Replacing them now isn’t optional, it’s responsible stewardship. Acting before failures occur protects students, avoids emergency repairs, and prevents far more expensive damage down the line. This is exactly the kind of proactive planning strong communities do.
Just as important is how we fund the work. Major capital projects are best handled through a debt exclusion because it spreads costs over the lifespan of the asset rather than hitting the operating budget all at once. It keeps reserves intact for actual emergencies, preserves our financial flexibility, and maintains our credit rating. That’s disciplined, long-term planning, not quick fixes.
And right now, we have a rare opportunity: nearly $5 million in MSBA reimbursements if we move forward promptly. That’s real, immediate taxpayer savings we shouldn’t walk away from. Delaying puts that support at risk and ultimately leaves residents paying more for the exact same roofs.
Sudbury took an important step on December 1. Following through on December 16 keeps us on a responsible, strategic path, one that protects our schools, safeguards our finances, and respects taxpayers over the long haul.
Vote YES on Tuesday, December 16. It’s the smart, stable way to fund essential infrastructure and invest in Sudbury’s future.
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
7 AM – 8 PM
Fairbank Community Center Gym, 40 Fairbank Road