FARMINGTON – As a referendum vote on school consolidation draws near, SAD 9 directors Tuesday rejected a proposed merger with SAD 58 as recommended by a study panel.

The 13-1 vote followed concerns raised by directors over the consolidation process and risks of penalties.

In moving that the board approve consolidation, Director Jo Josephson said it was a difficult and necessary process with the potential for more to be achieved if there had been a better process. Ultimately, Josephson saw the ability to draw from each school district’s strengths for the improved education of children.

A collaborative effort between schools was already under way before the consolidation issue arose, said Director Mark Prentiss, who expressed hopes of retaining that collaboration even if SAD 9 stands alone.

“It was the process that we had to work under that is at fault,” Director Neil Stinneford said. “Even if we incur penalties, we’ll be better off than with the plan.”

If voters follow suit and reject consolidation in November, the board may need to submit an alternate plan by the end of January. Without state Department of Education approval of the alternate plan, the district could face penalties, explained Superintendent Michael Cormier. But enough work has been done and data collected that could help the board work through it, he said.

“People need to vote what they feel is right or wrong,” Cormier added.

The board approved mailing a consolidation brochure by a 12-2 vote.

The brochure will answer 10 of the most asked questions about consolidation and include a copy of the referendum ballot question.

“We tried to be factual but neutral and just stick to the facts,” Josephson said, speaking for those who worked on the brochure.

A public hearing on consolidation is planned for 7 p.m. Oct. 21 at Mt. Blue High School. A meeting at Kingfield Elementary School is planned for Oct. 16.