With a new track below me and a full head of hair above, I was ready to kick some bootie during my last track season for Vashon High. Forty years later, it’s easy to see how fleeting the good things in life are. I may have some residual self-confidence from doing well in my races, but the hair, alas, is long gone. That track, new in 1971, the same one in place today, was deemed unfit for competition several years ago. VHS has not hosted a home meet for five years, while team membership has declined.

The two capital bond proposals that school district officials are asking voters to consider represent much larger issues than the track team’s morale. The central questions for both Proposition 1 and 2 are these: Will we recognize the need, as we have historically, to periodically improve important public facilities that enrich our entire community? Can we look past our current financial difficulties and conclude that Propositions 1 and 2 represent necessary change, not foolish extravagance?

I ask you to vote for both measures, with special emphasis on Proposition 2. Its implementation is contingent on passage of Prop. 1, but it would be a shame to pass one without also passing two. Prop. 2 is inexpensive; the monthly cost to a taxpayer who owns a $400,000 home is about $2.67.

The benefits are enormous for the entire community:

• Robust school facilities, including athletic fields, help preserve Vashon’s image as a premium place to educate and raise children. This is an essential component in maintaining property values. Ask a real estate agent if you don’t believe me.

• Reduced scheduling pressure for all school, club and community field sports.

• A field that is virtually maintenance free, available for all scheduled play 100 percent of the year.

• Reduced water usage. Currently, 85,000 gallons are used annually to irrigate the high school field.

• A track that will be approved for league competition and open to all.

— Todd Pearson

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