Taxpayers will vote for proposed three-school district merger in September

The fate of the proposed three-school district merger in Herkimer County is now in hands of the taxpayers. Herkimer, Ilion and Mohawk school districts held its final public forum for the community to get informed and raise any questions.

The meeting took place at Herkimer County Community College.

All three superintendents from the school districts explained a general overview of how the merger will affect students, transportation, recreational programs and taxpayers.

One attendee, Janet Wren says she came out tonight because she's concerned about her grandson's future. She says she's worried if the merger were not to pass.

"Will they eventually not be able to provide for the program that they need for the kids? Will taxes go up for taxpayers? I am concerned about living and growing old in this community and have a good education for the kids but also being able to afford my taxes," says Wren.

The next step is for taxpayers in the three school districts to vote for or against the merger on September 12th.

If that referendum is passed, taxpayers will vote again the following month on October 18th.