In an effort to gain support of the proposed "best" bond (tax increase) measure and a positive vote, the Coos Bay school board has spent many thousands of our tax dollars for junk mail, electronic media advertising, etc. (see summary of expenditures at the Oregon Secretary of Sate web site). In a recent The World article, school board spokesperson Martin finds fault with the outspoken courageous few who openly oppose a tax increase; those voters who already voted no in May; will in all likelihood vote no in November; and would probably vote no a third tine.
Please Mr. Martin, in a very few factual and verifiable sentences in response to this letter, convince those struggling to survive; those eagerly awaiting their $20 cost of living social security benefit increase; the older folks of our community; to accept added tax burden and to vote yes. What are the direct benefits of the proposed "best" bond measure to senior citizens with no ties to the schools? What, specifically, has the CB school board done to improve education; to keep children in school; while cutting costs to partially offset claimed needed tens of millions of dollars in structural improvements? Why is any bond / tax increase required if we believe the supporters of the Jordan Cove LNG factory and the Community Enhancement Plan who tell us of the many millions of dollars that will soon be flowing to Coos Bay schools from Jordan Cove annually? With so much conflicting information, why should we believe and trust the school board? Why should we sign up for 25 years of compounded increased tax? Just one of many added state and local taxes to be experienced in coming years. What are the alternatives to a tax increase (the "best" bond) that the school board considered, rejected, and why?
Fred Kirby
Coos Bay
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