I feel that the second vote the Vashon School Board took to put the capital bond on the ballot in February was a façade. The board was not in agreement about whether the bond should be delayed. Two wanted the vote to come in November as originally voted upon by the board months ago. So a vote for the sole purpose of a show of solidarity, for the community to see, has a false ring to me.

Anything can change between now and February. This community rejected a $75.5 million bond because the scope and price tag was too much. I am glad we are not voting for this $47.7 million bond in November. I still think the scope and price tag of this proposal is too high. But now we have three months to make changes. It is easier and less expensive to make these changes before the measure reaches the ballot box. I know I am going to use this time to speak directly to board members to try to sway them to make this bond leaner.

But the board needs to hear from many voices, not just mine. People tend to surround themselves with like-minded people, which only reinforces their own beliefs. From the comments I have heard from the board at the meetings, this is true for them as well. Seek out a board member you disagree with. Go to coffee with that member and explain why your thoughts on the bond should be highly considered. Come to the meetings and make your comments during the public comment period.

I certainly do not consider the second vote of the board as “momentous” as they claim in their letter to the editor, but this community can make that vote “momentous” if we get involved in the debate and bring a package that proves acceptable to 60 percent of the community.

I’m going to start by having a beer with Bob Hennessey.

Hilary Emmer