Ronald Reagan popularized the phrases “tax burden” and “tax relief” while simultaneously calling on America to be the world’s “shining city on the hill.”
Voters accepted the paradox that America could be that beacon while Americans themselves could renege on their obligation to the nation’s physical and intellectual infrastructure. With the benefit of hindsight, it is clear that “tax relief” was a justification to enrich America’s already well-healed while starving programs that protected America’s most vulnerable, too often its children.
The false identity of a great nation fighting the burden of taxation resulted in politicians who promote disdain for government and distrust of public institutions, including public schools and school boards. Governor DeWine’s dismantling of the Ohio School Board is a glaring example.
The truth is that taxes are the dues we pay for the privilege of membership. If we want to belong to strong, healthy communities we must be willing to morally and financially support the institutions that are central to our communities. Certainly, we can and should debate spending priorities and government decisions. The democracy we enjoy ensures that everyone has the right to vote. But the thriving communities we want to be part of are only possible if the decisions we make at the ballot box are informed, reasoned, and unselfish. Simply opposing taxes for the sake of opposing is uninformed, undemocratic and destabilizing to the foundations of society.
This applies to the Bowling Green School levy on the November ballot. The condition of the high school is demoralizing for kids and teachers and embarrassing for the community. It undermines our civic foundation. The financial reasoning behind the recommendation for a new building is clear. There is no economically viable alternative.
Nothing is more important to our community and its future than our children. No institution is more foundational to America than its public schools.
Rick Busselle
Bowling Green
