Levy is essential start to fixing area schools

School levy voters now have another good reason to vote "yes." Thanks to the Idaho State Commission's Aug. 16 directive to the Bonner County commissioners, the projected tax rate for the proposed school plant facility levy has been reduced by 37 percent, to $126 for property with a taxable value of $100,000.

We have been talking about this levy to people throughout the district in the last few weeks. Despite concerns about property taxes, we have found a deep reservoir of support for our schools and for this "critical needs" levy in particular.

Voters know that capital improvements are necessary and long overdue. The last plant facilities levy passed in 1985 — more than 20 years ago! Supporters understand the need to ease school crowding by completing Kootenai School so it can serve grades K-6. And, they also know the district needs new school buses, better heating systems, and upgrades to food service equipment, centralization of phone and computer networks.

This levy is an essential start on fixing our school facilities. More delay costs more money. So now is the time, and your cost to help out just came down.

Bill Berg

Alison Burgstahler

Citizens for Better Schools