April 11 , 2005

An Easy Decision: Vote for Parcel Tax in Redwood City

The Redwood City School District has trimmed $8 million from its budget in five years, but it can no longer postpone the inevitable: a parcel tax.

Nearly all Peninsula districts have parcel taxes. Redwood City, among the lowest-funded districts in San Mateo County, desperately needs one.

Measure V would bring in $3.3 million a year for five years and would cost homeowners $85 a year. Senior citizens would be exempt. Commercial properties would be taxed $200 to $2,500 a year.

If Measure V doesn't get two-thirds of the vote, the district will cut 57 teaching jobs, increase class sizes and reduce library staff. The quality of education will suffer.

Voting for it couldn't be easier. No waiting in line at polling places. In fact no polling places at all. Just mark the ballot that came in the mail, sign the envelope and mail it before May 3. To make sure your cote is counted, vote early. And vote yes.