Proposed levy covers only essential needs

I want to set the record straight regarding the $12.6 million, two-year school plant facilities levy scheduled for a vote on Sept. 5.

This levy is critically important to children and families of Lake Pend Oreille School District. Voters have not approved a plant facility levy since 1985 and have not approved a construction bond since 1953. The projects proposed in this levy are critically needed by the district to provide safe and adequate schools and bus transportation.

In a professional survey conducted earlier this year voters were favorable to completing Kootenai Elementary School, which was left unfinished when previous levy funds ran out. Nine million dollars of the levy funds being requested would remodel and complete Kootenai. Other money would purchase buses, heating equipment, technology infrastructure and school kitchen equipment. The district is currently out of compliance with federal regulations regarding school lunch preparation.

Passage of the levy requires 55 percent approval. This is not a wish list, but essential and overdue upgrades for our schools.

MARCIA WILSON

Sagle