Missoula business community supports school levies – The Missoula Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

The Missoula Chamber of Commerce http://www.missoulachamber.com/ Board of Directors unanimously supports our K-12 public school systems – and the upcoming funding levies. We are proud of the many dedicated teachers, administrators and staff who work tirelessly to provide Missoula County children with a solid foundation so they can become productive employees and citizens.

Our local economy depends upon a strong business base. Owners, managers and entrepreneurs know that their businesses can’t compete and thrive without access to a well-educated, qualified work force. Since businesses do not stay in or relocate to communities that have substandard schools, economic development and job creation is closely tied to our educational system.

As federal and state funding decreases, our local community will be tasked with taking a greater role in the conversation about what a quality education means and in providing financial support for school district priorities.

The Missoula County Public Schools building reserve levies do not increase taxes. These are renewal levies that provide dedicated funds to repair and maintain school buildings to keep both our children and the general public who use these facilities safe.

The general fund operations levies for all area school districts offset the significant decreases in federal and state funding, and ensure that our schools can continue to provide quality education while addressing increased performance standards, improving graduation rates and fostering higher achievement for all students.

When you support your school districts through these levies, you are providing local children with a fair start while building a strong community. Please vote "yes" and return your ballot by May 3.

Kim Latrielle,

President/CEO,

Missoula Area Chamber of Commerce,

Gary Clark,

Chairman,

Board of Directors,

Missoula

http://missoulian.com/news/opinion/mailbag/article_8d244e3a-7299-11e0-ab64-001cc4c002e0.html