There were a number of surprises at my first school board meeting.
One being the students’ inspiring and brilliant presentations to the board, another was sentient disbelief and shock from the board regarding levy failure.
I was surprised because it is clear to me why it failed:
1) 0.247 percent in addition to already present 0.32 percent property tax.
2) Would McCleary changes upcoming not free expenditures to shift resources to indirectly address some of this failing infrastructure?
3) Why are our kids in these conditions?
Has not every maintenance and operation levy passed in decades?
It’s confusing for the community to be asked for a new high school then asked for expansion of only Stevens Middle School when elementary, middle and high schools all need improved heating, plumbing and fire systems.
4) $46.7 million should buy an entirely new school.
After much waffling, I marked my ballot “no,” but felt so wrong and torn, I didn’t submit my vote.
Why?
I felt like a “yes”was throwing money at a mismanaged problem, as in number 3.
Most of the community knows the schools are in disrepair, hearing horror stories of heating, leaks and safety hazards.
I joined the abstention majority with a 43 percent voter turnout.
The board meeting was anticlimactic and discussion on actions forward were tabled
Again, I’m not the only absentee.
If the next proposal is an essentially respectful management of funds with long-term vision, then join me with a “yes” for kids.
If I am completely off please forgive me, I’m a product of the Port Angeles School District, class of 2003.
Jake Purvis,
Port Angeles