Posted By: Ann Johnson
The following is the text of Ann's letter published in the April 27, 2007 edition of the Lansing State Journal:
Reject Okemos bondThe Okemos School Board has chosen to live beyond its means, acknowledging a projected deficit ranging from $900,000 to $1.8 million. Now they are coming to the community to bail them out with a $6.8 million technology bond.
The needs stated in the bond have been known for some time, yet they have chosen not to save and plan for these "necessities." Instead, the board has spent lavishly on items such as start-up costs for a public Montessori (moved to three different locations in five years), and contracted "assistant superintendents" and pricey consultants.
We need to hold them accountable for poor spending choices, and require them to live within a budget just like everyone else. I urge everyone to vote "no" on May 8. Send a message that the board needs to focus on the interests of Okemos kids, rather than its own agenda.
Ann Johnson
Okemos