Stop-Drop-Go Controversy at Radcliffe Is Resolved
• School Board President Ken Reilly OK's Rogers' Return as School Rep
Feb 12, 2011 – A much-discussed controversy concerning Board of Education President Ken Reilly's removing board member Steve Rogers as the BOE's representative to Radcliffe School was resolved yesterday when Reilly rescinded his decision.
"I am to return to the Radcliffe School PTO as your Board of Education representative," Rogers says.
Reilly's decision to remove Rogers as the board's liaison with the Radcliffe School community was linked to an unresolved controversy regarding as so-called "stop, drop and go" proposal designed to abate severe traffic congestion at the school both during the early morning arrival hour and the afternoon school dismal. Rogers and Radcliffe school parents opposed the plan which involved use of the blacktopped area behind the school.
Reilly's plan to ease congestion involved a proposal to make the side street "one way" for a short period during the morning and afternoon dismissal hours. The current traffic congestion at the school is also the topic of a study involving the Nutley Board of Commissioners and police department. Although the study was begun weeks ago, no decisions have been made.
In statement today, Rogers said "the stop, drop and go option is dead and will not be resurrected."
The Rogers' complete statement follows:
"Last night, February 10, 2011, I met with Mr. Reilly with regard to the issues related to Radcliffe School. The following was agreed to:
"(1) Effective immediately I am to return to the Radcliffe School PTO as your BOE Representative.
"(2) With regard to the rear parking lot of the school as an option for the Stop, Drop and Go; that option is dead. It will not be resurrected.
"(3) The Township will be addressing traffic and safety concerns on Chestnut Street and Bloomfield Ave with input from the BOE if requested. A committee consisting of representatives from the appropriate Township Departments and representatives of the BOE will meet in the near future to discuss the safety issues which need to be addressed. All stakeholders, including the parents at Radcliffe School will be fully informed as to what was discussed at each committee meeting. In fact, I suggested that a PTO Rep be included in these discussions at the inception. Also, I will be on the committee.
"(4) Factual, accurate, and timely communications to the parents, administration, and other people impacted by any decisions regarding this matter is essential. Therefore, a report after each committee meeting will be forwarded to all concerned.
"The Radcliffe PTO expressed their concerns with dignity, honor, and always in the best interests of their children. They are to be commended.
"Now that this matter is settled, it's time to roll up our sleeves and move forward. I look forward to continuing my work with the Radcliffe PTO," Rogers said in conclusion.
