Political Reasons and Do the Math

May 28, 2003

Dear Editor,

Matt Millen clearly stated that his reasons for opposing Measure S are political and have more do with policy than with fiscal school management or quality of education. (“OPINION: Measure S Not Real Answer,” May 28)

He recommends that I risk the quality of our children's education on the hope that the Cities of Santa Monica and Malibu will make up the funding gap. I refuse to take that gamble. My children are too important to me.

By the way, Mr. Millen, why did you use our children and our educational system as the cornerstone of your rant against the currently elected City Council? Are you aware that quality education is one of the fundamental tenets of the Republican Party?

I encourage everyone to Vote Yes on Measure S.

John Prindle
Voter

May 28, 2003

Dear Editor:

Mathew Millen, in his May 28 letter to the editor, asserts that Proposition S is unfair to homeowners. Mr. Millen has clearly rushed to judgment without considering whether homeowners might derive a financial benefit from Proposition S.

Mr. Millen has failed to consider the following: what if good schools add 2 percent to the value of homes in a city where the medium value of a home is approximately $700,000? The homeowner would be investing $225 per year to add $14,000 to their net worth. That is a pretty good investment, particularly in today’s market where most investors are choosing between getting 2 percent at the bank, or losing money in the stock market.

Now what if the value of good schools is a number closer to 20 percent of a home's value, and the $225 per year tax was adding something in the ballpark of $140,000 to each homeowner’s net worth. The parcel tax would probably be the best investment most homeowners could make in their lifetime. Even owners of small condos would enjoy a huge benefit.

Realtor Vince Muselli put in best, in his May 22 letter to the editor, noting that the reason that a $300,000 house in Mar Vista costs $500,000 a short distance away in Santa Monica is the schools.

Jeff Segal
Santa Monica