Letter: Vote no on Richland school bond

Have you looked at the Richland School District voter’s pamphlet yet? Please do. I am in support of education and the job that RSD has been doing. I must however vote no on this $99,000,000 levy proposal. Here’s how it breaks down.

1. Build two new elementary schools, $48 million — I’d support this in a heartbeat if the non-education items were removed from the proposal.

2. Modernize the Richland High auditorium. $8 million — The justification “to meet the needs of the community” is not valid when so much funding is required to meet genuine education needs.

3. Upgrade Fran Rish Stadium, $10 million — Not essential in this time of real education costs.

4. Replace Tapteal and Badger schools, $51.2 Million — Fully supported.

5. Upgrade Hanford High athletic field, $6 million — Wait until older bonds are repaid.

6. New administration center, $10 million — Nothing wrong with using rented space.

7. Land purchase for later use, $7 million — Fully support as long-term planning.

8. RSD preschool center, $1.4 million — When did preschool become part of the RSD school charter? What next, a birthing center?

Please read the pamphlet and vote no. Ask the board for an education-only proposal.

This story was originally published February 7, 2017 at 4:09 AM with the headline "Letter: Vote no on Richland school bond."