No new taxes in '08

Indications show the economy becoming more fragile, with a 2008 recession more probable with significantly increasing inflation.

The sub-prime mortgage crisis is expected to last longer, banks are tightening credit, paying savers lower interest, the stock market is nervous, consumer confidence falling and spending reduced. By spring oil is predicted to top $100 a barrel. Oil affects everything so propane costs will jump also.

Locally some loggers/mill workers are being laid off with new construction slump deflating lumber industry. Coldwater Creek's stock is dropping from $26 to $5.30, third-quarter losses of $6.2 million and 9 percent of its workers laid off. Real estate sales are also way off.

Those are signs of a rough year ahead, but the Lake Pend Oreille School District blinding continues to pursue a facilities levy and new high school bond. Trustees probably realize a $20 million levy won't fly and have scaled down options, which indicates a lot of unnecessary fluff in the original.

A new high school just because LPOSD got free land? Hogwash! The current one possibly poorly designed, but working. Actual enrollment is down so it's unnecessary!

LPOSD out of touch with economic picture realities. Thinking Bonner County will be unaffected is absurd. It already is beginning.

All of us may have to tighten belts and do with what they have in 08/09. This is not the time to allow any new taxes period. Vote no on LPOSD levy and bond.

Tell the district to make due with currect resources like you will. Renters are not immune either. Guess what landlords do to rents when costs/taxes increase?

PHIL POUTRE

Cocolalla