Newton vote set for May 20

Newton voters will be asked to approve a $12 million property tax override on May 20. The Board of Aldermen approved the figure after hours of discussion and debate Monday night.

It will be the only question on the ballot. Mayor David Cohen's original $23.9 million request and Aldermen Susan Albright and Ted Hess-Mahan's $14.9 million proposal had been rejected by members of the board before Monday's meeting.

Proponents say the override is necessary to maintain quality of life and education, while opponents say the city needs to curb its spending habits in a poor economy, especially the cost of the new Newton North Hogh School. Cohen said Friday that the Newton North High School project would not cost more than $197.5 million. He has insisted that the override request is separate from the high school costs.

‘‘People who live in Newton appreciate having good schools and quality public safety, as well as having a city in which they can take pride,’’ said Gerry Chervinsky, a member of Move Newton Forward, a pro-override organization. ‘‘Without the override, Newton will move backwards.’’

Resident Barry Cohen of the opposing group Newton for Fiscal Responsibility. ‘‘It’s a hard time for everybody. People’s personal expenses are going up, with gas, electricity, and other prices skyrocketing. And we’re being asked to fund a trophy school. Before they ask for more money, I want to see them rein in some costs.’’