Need is urgent, pass the school bond

The failure of Auburn voters to pass the school bond was very sad and unfortunately, very predictable.

Eventually, we will pass the school bond. We always do. We just take our time in doing what needs to be done. Eventually we will replace Auburn High School. We really don't have a choice.

Auburn High:

• is not safe;

• seismic deficiencies are not legal niceties. We live in an earthquake zone;

• is very expensive to operate. Utility costs are triple that of other area high schools;

• cannot be refurbished in a cost effective manner. It's simply too old;

• could be the linchpin to revitalizing downtown Auburn.

Obviously, the standard school bond campaign tactics take too long to work. Perfunctory letters of support by city leaders and area realtors in this paper are not enough. Snappy PowerPoint presentations by school district leaders are not enough. We need to develop a sense of urgency as a community. Our city leaders need a wakeup call.

Therefore, my suggestion is that Auburn residents should vote no against any and all other local initiatives until the school bond is resubmitted for a vote and passes. If your child is scheduled to start the ninth grade next year at Auburn High, ask for a waiver to go to another school, a school that will not fall down if an earthquake strikes.

Go to City Council and school board meetings and complain. Make some noise.

– Jesse Wilson

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