From the 10/2/2024 Courier:

The first step

I was asked many times as a totally independent mayoral candidate, what I thought about the 1.09% school sales tax. My consistent message; the city made a big mistake by putting the tax on the ballot in 2016 to be paid “forever”.

A majority of City Council got it right by voting to put this question on the November ballot.

Some issues are too important to be decided by only seven members of our community. If a city issue is large enough and impacts all of us, every registered voter should be given the opportunity to vote on that issue.

Now that it’s on the ballot, I’ve been asked many times, “How do you plan to vote”?

In discussions with a couple of voters recently, their position was; I don’t like the current school board, I don’t like anything to do with the American Birthright teachings, I don’t like Christian Nationalism in our schools, I don’t like wasting a tremendous amount of my money on an unqualified, part-time superintendent; however, I don’t want to hurt the teachers or the kids so I’m going to vote to keep the tax.

That vote will be a strong enabler, allowing the school board and the school administration, including Merit Academy, to take the money and do exactly what they have been doing.

Doing exactly what you don’t like.

This is the first and most important step to once again teach the school kids, Real American Values.

Vote YES to repeal the school tax.

Jerry Penland, Woodland Park

Fostering an important conversation

I recently came across a suggestion on a Facebook community page about how our school board and Superintendent Ken Witt can foster trust and collaboration with more of the community. The idea is simple: hosting opportunities for parents, teachers, and community members to meet directly with the board and superintendent to talk about the sales tax and other pressing issues. For some time many people have expressed frustration about a lack of communication, and something like this could be a big step toward healing those rifts.

Imagine the positive affect having involved parents facilitate these meetings – this would not only provide a space for important discussions, but could help bridge any divide between the board and the community. Unfortunately, it seems the author of this thoughtful idea reached out to the board and Mr. Witt about it, but got no response. This lack of engagement is disheartening and reflects poorly on our leadership’s commitment to really listening to everyone. Ignoring voices from the community—especially those who may have different opinions—will not serve the best interests of our students and families. I urge the school board to take this opportunity seriously. By reaching out to all families in WPSD, including critics, they can show their commitment to inclusivity and transparency. Open dialogue is essential for building trust and fostering a supportive educational environment for our children.

Shawn Maddox, Woodland Park

And from the previous week:

Open the books

I can understand the handwringing over this 2A thing. Imagine that. Schools need money. In my own conversations with people around town, it strikes me as odd that the same people who argue that “you can’t throw money at it” are turned around now and arguing the need for public school funding. Whiplash anyone?

I can go either way on this issue. I’ll pay the tax. I won’t pay the tax. I’ll figure it out. Objectively, I just want to do what’s right. Here’s a thought, put the issue to rest right now. Open the books on the PUBLIC school district. Let’s see what’s been going on. What’s the big deal? I’ve been listening to this board and its sycophants for years telling the community that everything’s on the up and up. If you’re above board, what are you so “frustrated” about Mr. Bates? I’m sure no laws have been broken, right? Ask around.

District staff has been smashed by fiscal oversight at all levels ever since Ms. Moore embezzled half a million in 2008. Why shouldn’t the district admin be treated any differently? I’m sure no one in the district office has their fingers in the till. Certainly, we’re not looking at malfeasance like that, right? It only took eight years to regain enough community trust to pass a tax bill benefitting the schools. We don’t need eight years this time, right? There’s nothing to see here. Come on dudes. Open the books. Help me vote no.”

Andrew Pappadakis, Woodland Park