Dear Editor,
I’m writing in support of the proposed Replacement Bond for School Construction. I’m an active community member & volunteer. I have made it a priority and taken the time to learn how this bond will be used. I’ve found an open-door policy and full in regards to the use and justification of the bond. I am impressed and grateful for the prioritization the School Board and Bond Committee are giving to the feedback they’ve received from the community about concerns over an increase in their tax bill. Every Committee and Board member I’ve encountered is eager to answer questions.
Arcadia has been overcrowded and utilizing portables for almost ten years. The Homelink building is far outdated and too small. The transportation building deterioration is no exaggeration. There is simply nothing good left of that building except our amazing bus drivers who must suffer the conditions. Maintenance takes more time, and wear and tear is exaggerated with continued exposure to our seasonal elements, which adds to costs.
Portables are not the solution. Not only are they less safe and efficient, but they’re expensive. Each one is a $500k band-aid. Everything is more expensive today than it was yesterday. This same logic goes into not passing the Bond now. The need is overdue and will continue to grow. The Bond will be put on the ballot until it passes. And that costs money too. Meanwhile, projects get more expensive and the need, more dire.
I know how much Deer Park cares for its kids and its future. I understand the frustration over more taxes. But I don’t understand why anyone would decide to vote no at the cost of our most vulnerable and valuable, our children. Neither our District nor our kids have any control over the building boom in our area, the price at the pump, or in the grocery stores. The return on investment by voting Yes is immeasurable. And the cost to the average home is $24 a year. Please join me in voting Yes on the Replacement Bond for School Construction and let’s get moving on providing adequate schools and transportation our Deer Park children deserve.
A concerned parent & community advocate,
Linda Masterson
