Yes to Trout Lake levy

The reasons to support the school are many, and they are basic. The bottom line is, there is really nothing more important than ensuring that our kids have the opportunity to gain a good and well-rounded education.

The Feb. 8 levy would replace an existing existing levy, with the taxes raised going to support the district's general fund for educational maintenance and operation expenses.

If this levy passes, the state of Washington kicks in an estimated $57,000 for each of the two years covered by this levy. That equals about $114,000 in added funding that would not be forthcoming if the levy fails.

Further, is this levy goes down to defeat, programs are likely to be cut, and what is cut are usually the so-called "frills" that are not really frilly. On the cutting block when budgets get tight are the "extra" activities, such as athletics, music, technology, field trips, the library. These are pursuits that tend to spark an added element of passion to a student's time in school, and it would be a shame to have to sacrifice them. Programs such as this also help teach intangibles, such as discipline and the value of teamwork.

The Trout Lake schools have a solid reputation, and it's important to note that the levy rates for Trout Lake are among the lowest in the county. Trout Lake residents are expected to pay an estimated levy cost of $2.28 per $1,000 of property valuation (for the 2006-2007 collection year), and $2.16 per $1,000 for 2007-2008. In White Salmon, the corresponding levy rate is $2.52 per $1,000. In Klickitat, it is $3.73 per $1,000, and in Glenwood it is $2.99 per $1,000. Trout Lake is getting a bargain at the price.

Please vote "Yes" on this levy on Feb. 8.

JB