District 203 doesn't need tax increase
On Tuesday, voters will make a choice that will have a significant impact on the way in which the District 203 school board does business with the citizens of the district. The canard is that the referendum is about determining the future excellence of our learning community. The reality is we are already excellent -- the choice is really about ensuring District 203 continues to provide an excellent education to our children while maintaining respect for both the intent of the state tax cap laws and the wallets of its citizens. In short, at an affordable price tag.
I believe it's important for people to have facts and data before contributing an informed vote. To do so, those who can should visit the facilities that would be impacted by the referendum. Such a visit will provide ample emotion for all who attend. But that is not nearly enough! They should also read the consultants' facilities reports and the district's Touch the Future information. Doing so will show that the basic structures are in pretty good shape, many of the board's recommendations have nothing to do with education or safety, and the district is already in conformance with federal and state mandates.
It's also important to review the district's budgets from the past three to five years. They will find that as predicted three years ago by part of the board and numerous citizen groups, District 203 is building very large and unprecedented surpluses, mostly on the proceeds of the 2002 referendum (which was specifically advertised as not creating surpluses, funding new programs, or going toward capital projects).
I, too, have a passion for education. It can open doors for us the rest of our lives if we use it to make informed, intelligent decisions. That is why I believe the $72 million in surplus funds is more than enough to upgrade the facilities, protect our investment in our homes, and ensure our future thinkers and learners have what is required to continue their excellent education process.
I strongly urge all District 203 voters to vote "no" for on the referendum and ask the school board to work effectively with the millions of dollars in surplus they are already collecting from us!"
Bob Swininoga
Chairperson, "The Guy Watching Out for Our Wallets Committee"
Naperville