LETTERS: Families need more reasonable fix than bond

Published 1:50 pm Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Our family has been hit very hard by the recession. We have many things that are currently needed. For example, new car brakes, dentist appointments to fix cavities, a new dishwasher to replace the broken one, and on and on. However, due to a 50 percent reduction in pay, we have given up many needs to focus on only essentials.

When I see our elected school board put up a $56.2 million bond which includes a whole wish list of items, I get very frustrated. If a middle school is so badly needed, then just come to the taxpayers with a bond for a modest middle school. Forgo the wish list and tighten your belt a little.

Many families in the Valley are now facing real struggles. Speaking for our family, the added cost of 2012 property taxes could help pay for a badly needed trip to the doctor. However, I would have gladly voted yes, had I seen the school board take more time and really make significant cuts to the bond. Just because you have access to a $56 million credit card does not mean you have to max it out to its limit. A little fiscal responsibility would have gone a long way in convincing more people to accept this increase.

I am voting no to send the school board a message in the hopes that they will return with a more reasonable proposal.

Jenny Zinke

North Bend