Attorney circulates petition for smaller school referendum

A petition being circulated in West Salem by attorney, Harry Griswold would ask the school board to hold a referendum to authorize around $5 million in repairs and improvements in the district. He says the district buildings are mostly in excellent shape so the district doesn’t need another $31 million referendum like the one that was voted down earlier this year. 

At this week’s school board meeting, a representative of School Perceptions will be on hand to help the district with a new district survey to gauge public perception on facilities issues. Griswold says at a cost of around $10 thousand, it’s help that’s just not necessary. 

Griswold has been criticized for circulating supposedly inaccurate information right before the failed referendum this spring.  Those critics say Griswold’s efforts may have led to the measure getting turned down by voters.