By BILL WADT
Board Vice President
Los Alamos Commerce and Development Corporation

From October 5 to November 2, Los Alamos voters can approve the continuation of the Public Schools Building Act Tax to support the Los Alamos Public Schools. 

Approval will NOT increase property tax rates.  Approval WILL provide over $15 million across 6 years for student technology and network infrastructure as well as money for musical instruments, playgrounds, supplies, equipment, and general maintenance projects.

These funds enable the schools to focus operating dollars on paying and supporting teachers, nurses, counselors, and other critical staff who maintain a vibrant learning environment for our students. 

It is no coincidence that Los Alamos has both one of the highest median per capita incomes and highest levels of education in the Nation. During more than 40 years of service on the boards of the Los Alamos Commerce and Development Corporation and the LANL Foundation, I have seen time and again how critical great schools are for the vitality of the community and local economy.

The Federal Government understands. It provides $8 million annually to the Los Alamos Public Schools to maintain the excellent schools that attract and retain the talented scientists, engineers, and support staff needed to conduct the national security science mission at Los Alamos National Laboratory. This is a unique relationship in the Nation.

If we want to maintain a vibrant community and local economy with unparalleled impact on national security, we need to put our money where our proverbial mouths are. Join me and vote YES to approve the continuation of the Public Schools Building Act Tax!