From Deseret News archives:
Cities, county must team up to fix schools
The issues of crime, fire and disease do not honor the artificial political boundaries that we make in this valley, and joint solutions between the cities and county are required. Education is the key to success in the American way of life, and a well-educated electorate is essential in a democracy.
First, the east side of Jordan District should be allowed to go to a vote in November. We have done our due diligence, and our plan is ready to be put in place if the voters so choose.
Second, it is quite obvious that Granite District has not perfected its proposal and is not ready to proceed.
Fourth, the Jordan coalition has pledged that we would hold harmless the west side of Jordan District in a split of the district. This would include the support of current bond obligations. No one wants anything bad to happen to the new or remaining districts. Many of the east-side residents have family in the west area.
Fifth, this is an issue of governance. A somewhat smaller district would be in everyone's best interest. Jordan District has a population base of almost 400,000 people and a student population of 70,000. The projected student population by 2015 is 115,000. We believe that this large geographical area and the students who go with it is not a manageable proposition. The district must split sooner or later, and this is the right time for that to occur.
Sixth, the east side provides 56 percent of the revenue and receives 36 percent of the benefit. There have been promises for upgrading east-side schools that have not occurred. We clearly understand that the growth in the Jordan District is the southwest quadrant. However, the east side of the district has construction and refurbishing needs that are not being met and has also had school closures without input into those decisions. The Jordan School District administration has been very forthright with factual information, and its help is appreciated.
Seventh, the Salt Lake County Council needs to vote to allow the east side of Jordan District to go forward to the November vote. This would create a pilot program that would see if smaller school districts have merit. This affirmative decision by the council would also put pressure on the state Legislature to create a capital equalization fund for local school districts. For this proposal to have any value, it must have enough money to be effective, and we believe that a statewide proposal should be at least $500 million of new money.
The Jordan District proposal should move forward and not be held hostage while Granite District works on perfecting its proposal.
Ronald K. Fullmer, a former state lawmaker, is involved with the Eastside of Jordan District Coalition.
Recent comments
Both of these comments are right on!!!! Mr. Fuller has the same ego I...
WOWWW!!! | Aug. 16, 2007 at 11:10 a.m.
Mr. Fullmer:
First: "...if the voters so chose"? You
probably...
Teha Rangi | Aug. 16, 2007 at 8:43 a.m.
Mr. Fullmer has MOST of his facts incorrect. The east side has NOT...
Don't Give This Any Credibility | Aug. 16, 2007 at 8:35 a.m.
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