Fiscally Conservative Leadership

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In three years on the board I've learned that public school financing isn't all that straightforward.  But what is clear is that districts need to spend within their means.  For the 24/25 school year, we passed a balanced budget, the first time since the days of COVID.  I will continue to work hard to make sure that the taxpayer dollar is used smartly within the district.  I can't take all the credit here, we have a fabulous finance director who has the same commitment to fiscal responsibility as I do, and a solid team of conservative board directors.  

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High School?

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While I've never really met a tax I didn't want to vote against, I do support the construction of a new, comprehensive high school.  This is a big ask of the community that has already seen its property taxes raise dramatically.  I understand the hardships that folks face, but I also know that every year that goes by it gets more expensive to build.  So the construction of a new high school is a priority for me, which means understanding how school construction is financed is important.  I spent many hours studying cost estimates and bond financing structures.  I believe that growth pays for growth, which is why I supported a limited and reasonable impact fee on new residential construction to help fund future expansion needs. 

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In my view a new high school needs to be "all up", focusing on:

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• Classrooms and open learning spaces

• Modern CTE (Career and Technical Education) facilities

• A performing arts center and band room

• Properly sized cafeteria and restrooms

• Upgrades to our football field, track, bleachers and gym

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Someone once told me that Lynden has a "commitment to excellence".  We should prove that by providing our kids and grand kids with excellent learning facilities.

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