Obviously the local community (and I refer to Pickerington City residents, Violet Township residents, and residents of the Pickerington Local School District)is made up of residents that share different opinions and views on many subjects. The actions of elected leaders should reflect the views and opinions of the voters that represented them. Clearly, the split vote on the last school levy indicates that both sides of the 3-2 school board are supported by the voters. And let the city residents support or overturn the annexation zoning approved by Pickerington City Council. The petition and subsequent election issue isn't a bad thing - it lets the voters have a voice to affirm or disagree with a council decision.
As for the school board members, I personally will continue to support Riegelman & Oakes not because I'm anti-schools (which I'm absolutely not and I don't believe Bruce and Gail are either), but because I believe they rightly question the majority decisions, PLSD budgets, uses of taxpayer money, etc. Asking questions provides answers and makes people accountable.
As for the PATA, I'm glad there are those willing to speak out and take action to protect our community. None of their actions is for personal gain. We all benefit by their efforts to protect the Pickerington Ponds and to provide factual data regarding the effects of residential growth on the Pickerington Schools.
Dissenting viewpoints are not bad. They often expose issues that the other side may not have addressed. Everyone is entitled to their opinions; if you disagree, attack the viewpoint and provide a basis for your opinion. Attacking the individual is unnecessary and counterproductive.
As for the school board members, I personally will continue to support Riegelman & Oakes not because I'm anti-schools (which I'm absolutely not and I don't believe Bruce and Gail are either), but because I believe they rightly question the majority decisions, PLSD budgets, uses of taxpayer money, etc. Asking questions provides answers and makes people accountable.
As for the PATA, I'm glad there are those willing to speak out and take action to protect our community. None of their actions is for personal gain. We all benefit by their efforts to protect the Pickerington Ponds and to provide factual data regarding the effects of residential growth on the Pickerington Schools.
Dissenting viewpoints are not bad. They often expose issues that the other side may not have addressed. Everyone is entitled to their opinions; if you disagree, attack the viewpoint and provide a basis for your opinion. Attacking the individual is unnecessary and counterproductive.
