Canajoharie and Fort Plain residents vote against merger in straw poll

Voters in the Canajoharie and Fort Plain central school districts put an end to the merger process Thursday, March 6, by voting against the merger in an advisory referendum/straw poll vote.

The measure was rejected with a vote of 318 to 286 in Canajoharie and 206 to 191 in Fort Plain.

The boards of education now have one year to revisit the question of a merger and put the question to the community for a revote if they choose to do so. After that time, a new study would be needed if the districts wish to reconsider a potential merger.

Canajoharie Superintendent Dr. Nick Fitzgerald and Fort Plain Superintendent Lauren Crisman wish to thank all who voted in the straw poll. They also thank the districts’ boards of education, members of the Merger Advisory Committee and members of the two communities who gave generously of their time and thoughtful input during merger study meetings, in surveys and during forums on the potential merger.

Despite the outcome of the poll, the superintendents said the merger study and community feedback throughout the process have provided input that will be valuable as the districts continue to look for ways to work together for the betterment of their students.