I have lived on this island off and on since 1980. In the times I have not been here, I have longed to get back.

The sense of community on these two islands is unsurpassed by any other place I’ve ever been to. Our new high school is something to behold. If you have not been there, I encourage you to. Before it was built, the discussions to build were, for the most part, positive.

This is 2015. Our priceless children need a top-notch athletic facility to perpetuate their health and wellbeing. You only need to travel to the other side of the pond. I would venture to say that none have a facility as decrepit and out of date as ours. Please don’t skimp on this facility.

I have heard estimates of $25 million to $32 million, and those don’t even give us bathrooms at the stadium. Please, school board and concerned citizens of Vashon, let’s unite and give our students what they deserve.

Why not $40 million and get the job done? What is that going to cost each property owner?

Will it mean there will be no meat on the table after the levy is passed? Of course not. I am guessing it will cost each one of us around $1 a day. I’ll bet most of you lose that every day in your sock drawer.

Please support our new athletic endeavor.

— Bill Brown