To the Editor,

13 years ago, my husband and I moved to Westerville after a yearlong search for a great place to raise a family.  Several factors influenced our decision, including:  quality of the school system, quality of city services, parks and recreation, and affordability.  We have never been disappointed with our decision.  On the contrary, we have taken great pride in watching and participating in the growth and development of the Westerville Community. 

Unfortunately, we have now reached a crucial point regarding the quality of education in Westerville.  The defeat of the May levy, combined with decreasing State funding, has placed our school district in a fiscal crisis.  The old adage "you get what you pay for" holds true with School Funding.  Citizens of Westerville need to be informed of the situation and go to the polls to vote in November, armed with accurate information.

Voting is a right and a privilege in our country.  We are so fortunate to have a say in our government.  We also take on a huge responsibility.  Your vote should not be taken lightly.  I ask that citizens of Westerville vote based on their beliefs and personal situation, but most of all, vote based on accurate information. 

A grassroots organization, WeVOTE: Westerville Voters on Target for Education, has formed to help voters obtain accurate information and to address school district issues that voters are concerned with.  If you would like to help with this effort, or have issues that you would like addressed, please e-mail WEVOTE2003@yahoo.com or visit the website http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wevote2003.  Be an informed voter!

Helen I. Chan