OCEAN GATE — Voters in Ocean Gate rejected a school funding referendum, prompting district officials to acknowledge community concerns while warning of difficult decisions ahead for the borough’s only elementary school.
The Ocean Gate Board of Education said the referendum’s defeat means residents do not support closing funding gaps through higher local taxes, following years of state aid reductions under New Jersey’s school funding formula known as S2.
District officials said state aid to the school has dropped by more than 60 percent, shifting a greater share of costs to local taxpayers.
In a letter to parents, Board President Richard Casey said the vote outcome will change the district’s path but not its mission. He emphasized that the board remains committed to students, staff and families, even as limited resources and financial uncertainty shape future decisions.
Officials thanked residents who participated in the vote, regardless of how they voted, calling turnout an important sign of civic engagement. The board also said it plans to continue listening to community concerns and exploring responsible options to address budget shortfalls.
The statement acknowledged heightened emotions and what officials described as misinformation during the referendum process, urging residents to raise concerns during formal Board of Education meetings, where administrators and board members can address questions directly.
District leaders said the coming months will involve hard choices that could affect programs, staffing and operations, but stressed that the school’s focus remains on serving students and maintaining transparency with the public.
The board encouraged residents to stay involved, attend meetings and remain engaged as the district works through what it called a new and uncertain chapter.
