Say 'no' to Cary schools

Cary Elementary District 26 is asking voters for permission to borrow $17 million for improvements to operations and facilities within the district.

The tax hike would cost the owner of a home worth $300,000 about $47 the first year.

It would fund an outdated technology program; more than 950 of the district's 1,100 computers, for instance, are more than five years old, many are as old as 10 years. Equipment and staff development in this important area are also in need of updating, district officials say.

Finances also would be restructured to eliminate and reduce short-term borrowing. Officials estimate this would save the district $130,000 annually.

The tax hike also would provide money to make improvements to district buildings and grounds, including the replacement of roofs, replacing old buses and parking lot repairs.

As many voters undoubtedly will do on election day, we struggled with our recommendation.

While we are am somewhat concerned that the district's equipment and roofs are urgent needs, we also wonder whether there is more in this referendum than what is immediately needed.

While it might be a struggle, we believe they could make it another year or two with the existing facilities until the economy improves.

We recommend a "no" vote.