It’s not a new tax

I am writing this letter to urge the voters in the Arlington School District to vote “yes” on the upcoming renewal of the Educational Programs and Operations Levy.

This levy is not a new tax, but a renewal of the existing tax that we all have paid over the last several years. Rest assured, our real estate taxes will not be increased by the renewal of this levy.

As a member of this community for over 25 years, as well as a volunteer coach, I believe it is our paramount duty to reinvest in our children’s future.

These are ever-changing times, and our educational system must keep up with the changes in order for our children to succeed.

The renewal of the levy will ensure that our children continue receiving the high-quality education that district prides itself on. In addition, the renewal of the expiring levy will guarantee that the programs that our children rely on will continue.

These programs include technology, teaching materials/curriculum, academic support, transportation, special education and extra-curricular activities (i.e., athletics, robotics, arts and other activities).

Voters in Arlington have a great history of showing support for our school district. When your Feb. 9 ballot arrives in your mailbox this week, please join me in voting “yes” so that this tradition continues.

Dennis Modahl, Arlington

Vote ‘Yes’ on levy

It is with eager anticipation that I write this letter to my fellow community members urging them to vote “yes” and renew the expiring Educational Programs and Operations Levy on Feb. 9.

Our students are our future.  As a parent of three children in the Arlington School District, I have experienced the exceptional educational opportunities and athletic programs offered over the past 10 years my family has lived here.

We came to Arlington because of the “smallness” of the environment and how personal it felt. We stay for the educational experience that our children receive-the teachers, the programs, and also the support and engagement from the community.

Even people who haven’t had children in schools for years still come out to support our schools.

This levy is not a new tax, but a renewal of a current tax expiring at the end of 2016. These levy funds make up 28 percent of the district’s general fund.

It is essential to the education of this generation and those to come that we support this.

Passing this renewal fights back the cuts our schools have experienced over the years by legislators, who continue to be in noncompliance and violate their constitutional “paramount duty” to amply fund the education of all K-12 students.

Arlington has an incredible number of long-term residents who have raised their families and taken advantage of the outstanding education offered in Arlington schools.  Every voter should want young families to have the same opportunity to raise a family and get the best education possible.

Remember to vote on Feb. 9.  And support the students and families of our great city by renewing the levy.

Virginia Muniz, Arlington

What about seniors?

The Stillaguamish Athletic Club no longer accepts Silver Sneakers.

They turned their backs on seniors; they don’t care about your physical exercise.

All other physical exercise facilities in the area take Silver Sneakers.

It’s what’s wrong with America-greed and money. I find this to be very disappointing and sad.

Les Pederson, Arlington