The Save Our Schools Coalition officially opened its SOS Washoe campaign headquarters on Tuesday at 1 E. Liberty Street in Reno. Their goal is to get the sales tax initiative to pass in November so funding will be raised for maintenance and construction of Washoe County Schools.Â
Families, teachers, and even business owners are all coming together to talk about the need for this funding because of the overcrowding issues in our schools.Â
One parent we talked to at the grand-opening, plans to vote yes on the ballot in November.Â
"It's not a tax in my mind. It's an opportunity to invest in our schools," said Brandi Anderson, a parent.Â
Brandi Anderson's two boys are experiencing overcrowded classrooms, long lunch lines and disruptions at school. These issues now are making her worry about their future education.Â
"I've got a fourth and fifth grader. Both of them are looking at double sessions in middle and high school. I can't imagine what that's going to do to our family structure," said Anderson.Â
In order to avoid double sessions, the coalition says Washoe County schools currently require $781 million in construction and repairs.
Alex Bybee, the organizer for the SOS Washoe Campaign said, "There are asbestos, schools need fire safety upgrades, schools need leaking roofs patched."
Right now more than 50 local businesses are supporting the sales tax increase to raise this money. It's something you don't typically see.Â
Dennis Williams, with Meadows Bank said, "Tax increases are okay if it's for the right reason. This is for kids. And this is an investment in our kids' future and I think it's very important that we give them all the support that they need to succeed."
Len Stevens, CEO of The Chamber added, "We see the bright future for jobs, we the bright future for growth and development., economic development. And we see the absolute need for investment in our young people."
Even some residents without children in school, say they are recognizing the need for this tax increase.Â
Chip Cooper, from Reno said, "My kids have gone through the Washoe County school system from kindergarten and have graduated. We've got the next generate we have to support."
The coalition is always looking for more support.
More Information:Â
