(03/31/06) BOONTON ? Opinions among Boonton residents are split on an upcoming $19 million school budget vote.

School Superintendent Mario Cardinale says the district will be asking for an average $365 tax hike per property owner to cover the basic budget. In addition, residents are also being asked to approve a special question for textbooks and teaching positions that would boost taxes on average $193 per year. The special question will also be used to reinstate some sports programs that were cut after last year?s budget rejection.

Many residents in the district feel the extra money is a good investment toward an excellent cause. However, some seniors living on a fixed budget say the tax hike will force them out of town. If the budget is defeated, school officials say more sports programs will likely be cut and class sizes could increase. Voters will head to the polls on April 18.