Yes for our sons and daughters
Harlan Beagley,Former Publisher
My wife Kim and I are proud to say that our son Matt and our daughter Linda are fine products of one of the school systems right here in the Basin.
We have many effective schools here in central Washington, of which Royal School District is a great example. We are concerned, however, that your daughter or son and other Royal students are at risk of not being provided the same educational opportunities that our son and daughter benefited from if the current proposed bond fails.
It is imperative that on February 12, the Royal Slope community pass the school district's proposed 8.75 million construction bond.
If it is passed, the district could add four classrooms to the high school and 14 classrooms and a gymnasium to the fifth-grade pod to create a new intermediate school.
Let's look at the facts:
1. The bonds would be retired over 15 years at the interest rate of 3.21 percent. The property tax assessment to accomplish that would be just one dollar and 19 cents ($1.19) per $1000 of property value. So in other words, approval would cost the owner of a $100,000 home $119 per year in added tax.
2. If the bond is approved, the state would give us 4.4 million in matching funds. Add in the 8.75 million from our bond sale plus 1.1 million from the district and that gives us 14.25 million to build.
3. The 20-classroom plan reflects the growth of our area. We need act now to house the 30 students we're adding each year. Construction cost are at a all-time low; we need to build, so let's get the most value for our dollars.
I know it is challenging in these economic times and it may be difficult for someone who is not directly involved with the schools to appreciate just how strapped our public schools are for classrooms.
If you are unsure, just ask a teacher about his or her class size.
The citizens of Royal City have shown tremendous character with their support of numerous local charities and programs that enhance the quality of living for our areas.
The proposed construction bond is needed, and in our newspaper's opinion, well worth funding.
Just remember that back in the day, someone voted yes and paid this tax so you could benefit.
Now it is your turn to do the right thing, folks.
Please, for the best interest of our community, and children vote "YES" on this bond on February 12.
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