Let's do everything to support college

Regarding the Dec. 27 article, "Could Snohomish County fund its own college?":

As Sen. Steve Hobbs pointed out, the short answer is "Yes." Will Snohomish County fund its own college? Let's hope so. For years we have heard Snohomish County politicians talk about our local economy and bringing jobs back to our county. For once a politician is stepping up and keeping his promise; seemingly unheard of these days, yet true.

The idea is that I can have a four-year college in my back yard, with a curriculum decided on by the community, based on the needs of the community, employing hundreds of faculty and staff, enrolling hundreds and hundreds of local students, and all I need to do is go to a store and hand the cashier an extra 10 cents the next time I drop $50 on purchases. I've got a dime right here, sign me up.

I have four children, one five years away from attending college. Where do I want to spend my money? Can I afford for my kids to live in the U district or commute there every day? Why? I would rather spend my money here, at home, investing it in our community and my children's education. How can that be wrong?

If you don't want a minuscule hike in your taxes, or complain that you don't have kids so you don't want to have to pay for it, then the next time you go to the store give me a call, I've got plenty of dimes in my piggy bank.

Mr. Hobbs, Mr. Reardon, Mr. Hope, for the first time in my life I am speaking out. I am taking a stand and willing to invest my time and energy. Educate us. Show us how this will work, how we can bring jobs and families back to our community and how we can make a difference in the lives of our children. Tell me where to be and I will be there.

Douglas Russell
Lynnwood