NEWPORT — For the second time in four years, voters defeated an appropriation for a new recreation center.
Needing a 60% majority, the article failed to reach a simple majority, with a vote of 652-642.
The appropriation, this time for $8.65 million, was founded on an assumption that the project could raise the majority through other means including donations and grants. The proposal combined a $4 million bond with an estimated $4.6 million in other sources, of which $2.7 million has been raised.
In the only contested race, incumbent Jeff Kessler and former Newport police chief Jim Burroughs were elected to three-year terms on the Selectboard over Douglas Ring.
All other articles passed, including a $10 million budget, a four-year contract with police and an $85,000 advisory article for two career firefighters per shift, which squeaked by voters, 630-629.
Also passed were several requests or capital reserve funds or no-profits including Sullivan County Transportation and West Central Behavioral Health.
Turnout was1,298, 38% or of the town’s 3,459 registered voters.
Patrick O’Grady can be reached at pogclmt@gmail.com.
