Support measure 4204

However, we felt it was important to weigh in on at least one of the ballot measures that will face voters this fall. That measure is Resolution No. 4204, which would "provide for approval of school district excess property tax levies by simple majority vote of participating voters and eliminate supermajority approval requirements based on voter turnout in previous elections."

We urge a "Yes" vote on this measure. It has always struck us as completely unfair that almost every candidate's race or ballot measure is decided the "old-fashioned" way, by majority vote of 50 percent plus one vote -- but for some reason, school districts have been singled out as having to come up with 60 percent to get their levy measures approved. This rule is undemocratic, and never should have been put into place.

To put this supermajority requirement into perspective, how would political party candidates react if someone wanted to pass a law that stipulated that any Democratic Party candidates needed to get 60 percent before they could win against their Republican Party opponent -- or vice versa? This situation with the school districts is really no different.

Here's a chance to right an old wrong. It's time to kill the unfair "supermajority" requirement that currently burdens our school districts.

Please vote Yes on ballot measure No. 4204.

JB