Letter to the Editor: The Cost of Waiting Is Greater Than the Cost of Building
Yes to BHS Committee Member Michelle Huntoon shares why she believes "Delaying doesn’t save us money; it only passes a larger bill to the next generation."
To the Editor:
As a Burlington resident and taxpayer, I understand why people hesitate when they hear the words “tax increase.” No one enjoys paying more. But when it comes to our high school, saying “no new taxes” isn’t a plan - it’s avoidance, and avoidance has a cost. Every year we wait, that cost grows for all of us.
Burlington High School was built in 1973, more than 50 years ago. Its systems are failing, its classrooms lack natural light, and its design no longer meets the needs of modern learning. We’re already replacing our police station because that building had simply reached the end of its useful life. The high school is in the same position. We don't expect our first responders to work in unsafe, outdated conditions, and we shouldn’t expect our teachers and students to either.
Some say this is the “wrong project” or the “wrong time.” But if not now, when? Construction costs rise every year, and the problems inside our current building aren’t going away, they’re getting worse. Delaying doesn’t save us money; it only passes a larger bill to the next generation.
Voting YES on November 15 isn’t about luxury, it’s about responsibility. It’s about protecting our property values, attracting young families, and ensuring Burlington remains a town where people want to live and invest. A modern, safe, energy-efficient school benefits everyone, not just those with children in the system.
I think of Burlington as a community that takes pride in doing things the right way, not the easy way. The easy thing would be to vote “no,” pretend that doing nothing costs nothing, and leave future taxpayers to clean up the mess. The right thing, the responsible thing, is to face this challenge head-on and invest in a solution that will last for generations.
A “yes” vote is a vote for the Burlington we believe in and want to be: a town that values education, fiscal responsibility, and community progress. Let’s not let fear or short-term thinking stand in the way of long-term benefit.
As a parent and resident, I believe this vote is about what kind of community we want to be—one that invests in our future, or one that turns away from it. I’m voting yes, with pride and hope.
Michelle Huntoon
Say Yes to BHS Ballot Question Committee
Town Meeting Member, Precinct 1
62 Skilton Lane
