Thumbs down to WC bond by online voters

Columns

August 27, 2008

Phil Riddle, Democrat Editor

Anonymous The Weatherford Democrat Wed Aug 27, 2008, 09:33 AM CDT

Phil Riddle

editor@weatherforddemocrat.com

While the sample is admittedly small, respondents to the Democrat’s online poll question are overwhelmingly against the proposed Weatherford College $96.25 million bond issue.

Of about 100 voters who visited www.weatherforddemocrat.com and cast a ballot, slightly more than 68 percent said no.

The poll, of course, is not scientific and reflects the views of only those who took the time to vote.

Construction of new facilities and renovation of aging buildings and infrastructure are the key components of the college’s current bond plan.

A direct-mail brochure sent by the college in July outlined needs to be addressed by bond proceeds as set forth by the administration.

Included are upgraded classroom facilities and improvements to the library, as well as a new allied health building, a student services and student union complex and additional instructional space for physical education classes.

College officials point out most of the facilities on the WC campus were built in the ’60s, when the campus moved to its current location, and there are safety issues which must be dealt with, whether or not the bond issue passes.

According to the college, several buildings contain asbestos, and natural gas leaks caused classes to be canceled on at least one occasion.

That’s not taking into consideration the deteriorating heating and air conditioning systems and plumbing, fire sprinklers and hydrants that don’t meet current codes.

Still, the voters will ultimately make the decision on whether to pay an additional $30 per year, on average,

Several legitimate reasons could be behind the thumbs down by online voters.

The economy, while still reasonably strong locally, has voters worried about how they will stretch their income. Gas prices have abated some in the last few weeks, but an ever-changing hurricane season in the gulf could reverse the trend. High utility bills and other recurring monthly expenses might also make voters fidgety.

In addition, other tax increases are coming. The City of Weatherford’s new budget rate includes a property tax boost, albeit one approved by voters to pay for transportation issues and the new fire station. Parker County Commissioners are also seeking an $80 million bond package to upgrade roads in all four county precincts.

The college is also coming off the narrow defeat of a similar bond proposal in November 2007.

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