L.F. Public Schools - Referendum Update
Arnold Korotkin
Little Falls Township Public Schools
Tracey Marinelli
Superintendent of Schools
Dear Little Falls Community,
I hope this message finds you and your family well and enjoying a safe and restful summer.
As you are aware, the board anticipated moving forward with a referendum this fall, one that listened to the comments
from the community which helped us revise the scope to remove non-essential components and focus solely on the most
critical needs: capacity-generating classroom additions, roof replacements, mechanical and electrical upgrades,
and site and drainage improvements. We heard you, and we’ve acted accordingly.
We have recently been made aware of a newly approved funding opportunity through the Passaic County Improvement
Authority. After several urgent conversations with both the County Improvement Authority and our Bond Counsel, we
believe this opportunity deserves serious and thoughtful consideration because it could result in lower interest rates and
less overall tax impact. If approved by the authority it would not require a public vote.
Over the next several weeks, we will be meeting with the County Improvement Authority and our professionals to
determine whether moving forward with the Improvement Authority will result in substantial savings for the community.
We understand how important it is to maintain public trust and transparency. Choosing to pursue this path does not mean
we are trying to bypass your voice. In fact, it is the exact opposite—we are listening to your voice. You have told us
repeatedly that the need is real, but that cost and timing matter. If this path allows us to do more, for less, and sooner,
then it is our responsibility to pursue it on behalf of the children we serve.
To summarize:
The resolution for the September Referendum was submitted to the County Board of Elections, on July 10th.
However, this week the Board became aware of another financing option that may be financially advantageous
to the taxpayers. To consider this option and whether it is financially advantageous, the Board canceled the
September election. If the Improvement Authority approves the project, and the costs are lower, a
referendum will not be held.
We anticipate that there will be a full discussion on these critical issues at the August 18, 2025 BOE meeting. We
hope that you will attend.
We will continue to keep you informed every step of the way and will be hosting public forums later this summer to walk
through both scenarios and answer any questions you may have.
We thank you for your continued trust, partnership, and belief in the value of public education. These decisions are not
made lightly, but always with the best interest of our students and our community at heart.
Best,
Tracey Marinelli
Superintendent of Schools
TM/am
One District… One Team