The Township of Nutley Board of Commissioners has taken a significant step toward securing the future of Nutley’s children and ensuring the efficient use of taxpayer funds. Following their meeting on January 7th, the Board approved an ordinance to purchase the property at 777 Bloomfield Avenue, a decision that will expand access to state-funded Pre-K programs, expand the middle school to include grade 6, create a sustainable plan for the township’s educational infrastructure that does not require the need for a large scale referendum.

“Several months ago, the school district shared that without more classroom space to meet Pre-K demand the district risked losing State grant funds for this program. It was clear, we could not allow this to happen. We needed to find a workable and affordable solution. After much discussion we did,” Revenue and Finance Director Commissioner Thomas J. Evans stated.

For more than a decade, the school board has attempted to pass multi-million-dollar referendums to expand John H. Walker Middle School, only to be voted down by residents. This purchase will enable the 6th grade to relocate to the middle school and free up classroom space in elementary schools, allowing them to focus on delivering age-appropriate education while significantly expanding preschool access for families in Nutley at a fraction of the cost. The Commissioner also pointed out that the purchase will be paid for by lease payments from the Board of Education (in place of the lease payments the Board of Education currently pays for office space) along with funds generated from commercial taxes created by an On3 pilot agreement. The purchase will not increase municipal taxes for residential taxpayers.

Together, these actions will help prevent stagnation and ensure the continued success of Nutley Public Schools, while protecting and increasing property values. With the introduction of this bond ordinance, the Township will acquire 777 Bloomfield Avenue for $9.8 million, including renovation costs and compliance with prevailing wage laws. The building will be new and fully prepared to receive Pre-K students and district staff by September 2025, with the 6th grade transitioning to a middle school model by September 1, 2026.

“Acquiring this property is a catalyst for transformative changes in our school district,” said Commissioner Tom Evans. “This strategic investment will enable Nutley to meet critical needs at a fraction of the $70-80 million estimated cost of previously proposed referendums, while ensuring taxpayers see no increase in municipal taxes.”

“I think this is a creative step forward,” Commissioner Dr. Joseph P. Scarpelli added. “A couple of years ago, we all came together to find a solution to the overcrowding. This not only opens up the elementary schools, but also provides for Pre-K. And I think we will see strides in our academics that we would have not seen otherwise. It'll increase our property values and is a great step forward at a fraction of the cost of expanding the middle school.”

“First of all, I want to commend the Board of Education and the Board of Commissioners for working together because our children are our true treasures,” added Commissioner Alphonse Petracco. “I always say that how our schools go is how our town will go. So we have to invest in them. It reflects our property values in town, and it attracts good people because good people want good schools for their kids. I'm looking forward to it.”

Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci: “With our children, we get one shot. There are no do-overs. So the improvement of our children's education is probably the most important thing that we can do here in Nutley. I think this will be monumental for the Township.”

“One of the things that I always say is our kids and our young people are our most valuable resource,” Mayor John V. Kelly, III said, “and that's the most important thing that we can invest in in the community. We're a victim of our own success. The school system is great, and people want to come here, which ultimately puts strain on it. So we need to find more ways to improve and be better and always stay ahead of the curve. That way, our kids can go out and continue to make this town shine and continue to be a destination for all people from all walks of life. This partnership is a great thing and it's only getting started.”

By transitioning to a K-5, 6-8, and 9-12 model, the township will align with research that supports better outcomes for student development. Additionally, the project creates opportunities to reassess the need for temporary classroom trailers and reduce operating costs for the district. “Being able to invest in our children’s future providing early development education, making the middle school 3-year curricula program a reality enabling better preparation for high school several years sooner than what was thought to be possible without burdening our residential taxpayers is truly gratifying,” Commissioner Evans said. “This is about Nutley coming together as a community to invest in our children’s future. We’re ensuring Nutley’s schools remain strong, our property values continue to rise, and our children receive the best education possible.”