The people wanted, asked for this bond

Marysville School District leaders were not alone in addressing the facilities needs at each school, nor were they the ones who determined the dollar amount for the bond issue. There was a well represented, dedicated group of Marysville stakeholders (community members, business leaders, parents, district staff, Tulalip representatives, past facilities committee members, Realtors, contractors and others) who worked for months to extensively research each of our school’s needs. They offered many opportunities for community and staff input, worked with financial experts to determine the amount of money needed, compiled all the data and presented three proposals to our elected directors on the Marysville School Board for approval. This committee is called the Marysville Facilities Committee. I applaud their effort and dedication to our schools.

These three proposals range from $154 million to $171.6 million. After the board presentation, the board approved the proposal that matched what 80 percent of public input polls indicated: to put the $171.6 million bond on the ballot. So really, it was Marysville citizens who wanted and asked for this bond.

Let’s bond together for children by voting yes to address overcrowded schools and upgrade electrical, safety and technology needs. With Marysville’s growth in the last decade, our schools were unable to keep up with the demand. This demand will only increase as our growth continues. We haven’t passed a bond in 15 years, which explains the expense we need to pay now. We cannot afford to wait any longer. Marysville students deserve to have these facility needs met. The only way is to pass this bond!

Detailed information is available at the district office and the district Web site at www.msvl.k12.wa.us and through the Citizens for Marysville Schools committee at www.voteyesformarysvilleschools.com.

Karen Totten

Marysville