Proposition 1 is a reasonable, limited approach to a serious problem in our city. If voters approve, parks and streets will be repaired; if they oppose, there will be real impacts, including fewer fields to play on and streets with reduced lanes or speeds.
Over the years, Kent has developed an excellent parks system. People of all ages use the parks and parks programs as a part of their daily lives. This reality greatly enhances our quality of life. Unfortunately, the loss of revenue during the recession has placed the system at risk.
Opponents of the levy acknowledge the needs for street and park repairs but feel that the business community isn’t contributing its fair share to road maintenance. The City Council has now passed a new B&O tax to ensure that businesses will pay their fair share of the future maintenance needs of local roads. The only argument made by levy opponents is no longer valid.
Higher property values and lower crime rates are positively related to having good parks and streets in our community. Please join me in voting yes on Proposition 1.
– Judy Woods
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