Dear Editor,

Next week our school board has a tough decision to make. They must decide if they are going to place a question on the ballot that will impact the taxpayers of the Warsaw Community School residents.

They will place a referendum at the feet of the voters.

I support this referendum, and here is why.

I attended the community forum last night where we were presented with facts. I can tell you, our school board does not take this decision lightly. They were there to listen. Dr. Hoffert gave a presentation that I’d love to say was great; however the grim topic muted his wonderful presentation. His transparency and honesty was deeply appreciated by this mom.

The truth is, we live in an amazing community. Our school system is like no other. We care for what we have. We squeeze every single dollar. We use what we have, until it is no longer usable. Our teachers are heroes. They can take something from nothing and make it shine like a new penny. I talked to one teacher from Lincoln school last night who was beaming from ear to ear with the incredible family they have at that school.

However, there is an urgent need. A serious need. All one has to do is look at the pictures of falling ceiling tile, faulty electricity, cramped quarters and unsecure entrances to see, it’s a no brainer, this must be done.

Why do I support this referendum? Because they are doing it right. I’m a fiscal conservative. My first question when meeting with Dr. Hoffert was, “Have you cut enough of the budget?” Have we done everything we can to be fiscally wise? Is there no other option? Without hesitation, Dr. Hoffert opened the books. They’ve cut nearly $2.5 million out of the budget each year. They’ve been wise stewards with the dollars given to them by taxpayers. He explained that the current school funding formula coming from Indianapolis does not allow the schools to save for a rainy day.

By law, it must go to the voters.

I would encourage you be an educated voter and see it for yourself. Come see these schools. Don’t take my word for it! I support this referendum because it is a true need for our children. I am deeply concerned about wasteful spending, and taxing in our city, such as the bike paths with all the upkeep they will need, new taxes, high speed rail, etc. These are shiny objects. If I have to choose, I choose our children. They are the true investment in our community.

I am not one to support tax increases, however, I support this referendum because I’ve seen the schools, the books have been opened and I’ve seen for myself, the wise stewards who have diligently watched each dollar, and I’ve been presented with a solution. For my family, it will cost me about $45 a year, or a gallon of milk a month. Our kids are worth that.

Pray for our school board as they make this big decision. They have my support.

Monica Boyer
Warsaw