[speedgibson] Speed Gibson: Change of Heart

[Email subscription to blog articles]

Posted by Speed Gibson:
Change of Heart
http://speedgibson.powerblogs.com/posts/1225777926.shtml


   I understand that automated dialer calls are going out today and
   tonight, in opposition to the District 281 Levy. I don't approve,
   whether illegal or not. I don't like automated calling in any form. I
   especially don't think this is an appropriate forum for promoting
   candidates or referendums.
   Call it spite, but I will now be voting yes on Question Two of the
   District 281 referendum. I still think the return on "investment" is
   much less than for Question One, but it's not much more a year
   regardless. Superintendent Mack's honorable decision to step down also
   figures in my new decision.
   Now, to review the real facts of the situation.
    1. All other local units of government can set operating levies
       without referendums, including the profligate Hennepin County
       Board.
    2. This referendum is largely about restoration of prior budget cuts.
       No change or innovation is promised. You can read the list on the
       [1]rdale.org site.
    3. No matter what you think should happen, the Board will not make
       the cuts you think they should make if the referendum fails.
       They'll make the cuts also listed on the District site.
    4. History shows that saying yes or no to referendums has virtually
       no lasting effect in restraining rising education costs, thanks to
       the Legislature. Here at least you know what you're buying.
    5. Right or wrong, real or not, a perceived lack of funding makes it
       difficult to then demand accountability.
    6. If you are otherwise voting for big spenders, which includes most
       of the current Legislative delegation covering District 281, you
       can hardly complain about the relatively small amounts here.

   I still respect anyone's right to say no. I agree that K-12 costs are
   rising too quickly, especially given basically flat enrollment and
   test scores. But fight the right battle at the right time at the right
   place. This isn't it.

References

   1. http://rdale.org/