By Andrea and Hugh Hendrick

We have never voted against a school levy or bond. We recommend approval of the levy, essential for school operations. But the $35 million construction plans go beyond the necessary repairs and renovation to completely overhaul and expand the physical plant at a time of growing financial distress for a sizable percentage of the island’s population.

Much-needed repairs and upgrades to current buildings, which have been too long delayed, total $10.9 million. Why is the bond for $35 million?

What can a mere $22.4 million buy? The Orcas Christian School was built for $11 million.

The majority of the bond funds a wish list: new facilities for the OASIS kids: $0.99 million, a new Career and Tech Ed facility: $2.61, a new food Services facility: $3.02 million, a Music Program facility: $1.07 million, a new library: $1.2 million, and improved facilities for the administrative staff: $0.73 million. Total: $9.62 million. So where is the gap between the total $20.52 million construction costs and the $35 million for the bonds?

First, there is the largest single expense: $5.31 million to improve the grounds and sports fields. This leaves the largest item: $10.57 million in soft costs, which have not been detailed.

The school board argues that the larger community will benefit from the new facilities. We would like more explanation for why there is a need for more community activity space at taxpayer expense when we have many fine spaces available.

Why a new school library? Our excellent public library is only a few steps from the school. OASIS is a wonderful program. Why is a space costing almost $1 million necessary for independent learning?

Our current bond rate is $.27 per $1000 assessed value or $135 for a $500,000 home. The new bond will be $.72 or $360 for a $500,000 home. Combined taxes will be $660. Over the next 25 years, the owner of a $500,000 home will pay $16,500 to retire the bond.

The economic picture on Orcas Island is bleak. More families are using the food bank. School enrollment will likely decline owing to lack of jobs. Many retired people have seen their expected incomes drastically reduced as their health and other expenses rise. Rental prices can be expected to rise as landlords add the school tax increases. Tax on property is a general community tax, and all businesses will need to increase prices.

By rejecting the $35 million bond, a smaller bond can be voted on in November to finance the essentials of school renovation.

Andrea and Hugh Hendrick live on Orcas Island.