Editorial failed to provide answers

The Herald’s May 20 editorial represented everything I have come to hate about the news media: a poor investigation, lack of supporting evidence and a total failure to provide any useful answers. You assume that the Marysville school bond measure failed because there is something wrong with the voters of Marysville and failed to look seriously at whether there was something wrong with the system.

The school board and the proponents of the bond measure have failed to understand the demographics of the region, failed to adequately inform the public of the problem, and failed to find a funding solution the majority would feel was fair and equitable.

Admittedly, voter turnout was appallingly poor. Despite the best efforts of some well-meaning supporters, they were ineffective in getting their message out to the point that it is uncertain what portion of the population even knew there was a vote on the May 17.

Personally, if I were on your editorial board, I would be more concerned with discovering the real reasons behind why the bond measure failed instead of speculating. I would think about providing the public with a primer to local government. Who makes up the county and city governments? Who are the stakeholders in the school districts? What methods of funding are available to schools? Is property tax the only way to repay bonds? What other methods are available? Are they fair? Do they or don’t they work? Etc.

The school board and county government have obviously had some issues with successfully enlightening the public, and maybe you can do a better job.

I think your paper has a number of fine reporters that if properly directed and motivated could make a difference in providing the community with a clearer understanding of the issues that are facing us and may even be able to come up with some ideas that will really work. Polarized criticism that provides no real substance is a waste of time.

Charles J. Sarchet

Marysville