SCHOOLS: Their time has come

We have the opportunity Aug. 28 to vote for a bond measure to renovate five aging schools, built in 1928, 1950, 1957, 1962 and 1975. Additional major upgrades would be provided to five other schools.

While the district designates funds to cover basic maintenance, the fact is that buildings don’t last forever without improvements and renovation. It’s foolish not to maintain and renovate our existing schools. We can take care of them now or pay twice as much to take care of them later, when they’ve deteriorated further.

Consider these facts:

1) Voting yes won’t raise taxes, because older bonds are expiring. Your taxes will remain level. This bond represents an annual burden of $49 for homeowners in a $200,000 house.

2) The state does not provide any funding for building and facilities maintenance. We are responsible for our own schools.

3) The Coeur d’Alene School District’s tax rate is lower than any of the 13 largest districts in Idaho. It is also lower than the Post Falls and Lakeland district rates.

4) The district can’t afford renovations without a bond. They can’t even afford to buy library books.

Is taking care of our schools and children worth $49 annually to those of you fortunate enough to own a house worth $200,000? A $49 you ALREADY pay?

If you can read this letter, your elders chose to provide you with an education. It’s time to step up and do the same for the next generation. Vote yes on Aug. 28.

BARBARA HALLETT

Coeur d’Alene