I have tried to remain mum on the upcoming South Kitsap School Levy, a four-year renewal for maintenance and operations.

Currently, we pay approximately $636 for a $200,000 home, (for school tax) in addition to library, state, city, this and that, almost $3,000/year. This renewal calls for an estimated $120 per year increase, or $10/month.

Call me the “Oger” on the playground. I have to vote “NO!”

Along with increases in our federal taxes, increases of gas taxes, bridge tolls, food costs, homeowner insurance policies, movie ticket price increases, property tax increases (I still don’t understand how homes that have lost values continue to see property taxes go up!)…etc. Eventually there is no more to give. (While the media reports jobless rates continue downward, there are many that are still unemployed. People on Welfare and food stamps are up! Families are gasping for air.)

This is a maintenance levy. For roof repairs or replacements. Fire alarms or flooring. Sidney Glen needs a roof repair? That is a “fairly new” school. The roof is barely 20 years old — isn’t it tile?

“For the Kids, Because They Matter” …great. I am all for education. But, new computers, chalkboards, toilet tissue rolls, some things can wait.

As we pay higher taxes and higher everything, Who is going to repair our roof? When we need new flooring, who can we count on to replace our floor?

Our kids are grown. Thank you to those that helped pay for their education. Remember, we paid as well and continue to pay. It does take a village.

I suppose my point is, when Peter wants to retire, and Paul keeps asking for more, who will help Peter because Paul has taken what Peter had hoped to have?

Sorry, but I’m a NO vote. I want my Peter to retire.

Ann Welsh

Port Orchard