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Voters OK $94.9 million school referendum By BiLL SanseRVino
Voters decisively approved a $94.9 million referendum on March 11 to fund significant improvements to the Lawrence Township Public School District’s facilities. The vote helps pave the way the way for modernizing school buildings and enhancing educational opportunities. The referendum, which passed with overwhelming community support, includes renovations to the 75-yearold Lawrence Middle School and the expansion needed to add the 6th grade into the building. According to unofficial results fromt the Mercer County Clerk’s Office,
the vote was 2,677 (59.6%) vs. 1,756 (40.40%) in favor of the measure. A total of 4,433 of the township’s 26,100 registered voters cast ballots—a turnout of 16.98%. Voting in person were 2,676 residents, with 1,755 voting by mail. Planned upgrades span several district facilities, addressing long-standing infrastructure needs and ensuring the schools meet the demands of 21st-century learning. “This is an exciting moment for LTPS,” said Superintendent Dr. Robyn Klim. “We are creating a stronger academic experience for our students and ensuring our facilities meet the needs See REFERENDUM, Page 6
2025 municipal budget Trzaskus, Jusino-Lansing eye would keep taxes flat how far would Lawrence High School senior Tristan Jusino-Lansing flies over a hurdle during a meet in Toms River. (Photo by Tim Collins.)
bigyouspring go if theyfor LHS track & field were sick?
this past winter track & field season and both are looking for a big spring season. Sophie Trzaskus wants to be a docAfter finishing third in the Central Jertor. Tristan Jusino-Lansing hopes to be a sey Group III sectionals with a pole vault teacher and coach. But having admirable mark of 9-0, Trzaskus tied her school professional goals are not the only positive record of 9-6 to finish sixth in the Group III trait the Lawrence High School seniors state meet. She earned a wild card berth to have. the Meet of Champions, her first trip to the Both were hindered by nagging injuries big meet. tospring, Capital Health. thatWelcome affected them last both quali“I didn’t think I would qualify,” she said. See TRACK & FIELD, Page 20 fied for the NJSIAA Meet of Champions When someone you care about is sick, you’ll do whatever it takes to make sure they get the best care. And so do we.
By RiCH FisHeR
By BiLL SanseRVino
Lawrence Township Council was expected to approve its 2025 municipal budget following a public hearing on April 1. The $60.4 million municipal spending plan focuses on bolstering public safety, reducing debt, and maintaining essential services, all while holding the municipal tax rate steady for the second consecutive year. In his budget message, Municipal
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Manager Kevin Nerwinski highlighted the township’s fiscal discipline and strategic planning that have allowed it to weather economic uncertainties without burdening taxpayers with increased taxes. “We continue to enjoy a favorable financial situation that allows us to provide (and improve upon) the essential services our community deserves and expects from their local government,” Nerwinski said. See BUDGET, Page 4
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