Killing the school referendum message?

Editors note: The following is a letter we received from Dr. Dick Huber. It is presented unedited. Your comments are welcome.

When deliberating the referendum issue and a special election, please remember that sometimes it’s not about what you want, but how you go about getting what you want.  Sometimes the message dies because the messenger was killed due to his delivery methods.

Point #1.  Timing.  Voters know that we already have May and November election days to vote on local, state and federal candidates and issues.  I’ve heard some of the rationale that May is possibly too soon to vote on a referendum and November may be too late.  Surely there are enough good, creative heads on the school board and administrative staff to find the means for financial survival without a special election.

Many voters may feel that voting on one issue is not worth the effort to go vote.  Maybe a low turnout is what is anticipated.  But would you not want to know how a large majority of the voters feel at a May or November election rather that a small minority of special interest voters?  Are you seeking the support of many or just a few?  Is the driving force for a special election a slick maneuver or poor judgment and planning?

Point #2.  Funding.  Taxpayers will fund two elections this year and willingly so for the privilege of voting.  We should not have to pay again for a special election for a single issue.  Even if private contributions are used for a special election, that is money that could be well used elsewhere.

Point #3.  Consideration for others.  There are 31 precincts in the Center Grove school district.  As a precinct committeeman, I know that one of my volunteer duties is to find workers on election day as well as providing meals.  Each of the 31 polling sites can have five workers who will spend time at a training session, setting up the machines prior to election day, and then arriving at the polls at 5:00 a.m. on election day.  These worker are often senior citizens who have the time and willingness to provide a community service.  Money is not the driving force.  Most workers will receive $120 for at least 18 hours.  Minimum wage?  Do the math.  Do not take advantage of them for a special election.

Someone at the voting site must also arrive at 5 a.m. to unlock the facility, provide space, utilities and custodial services.  Voting machines must be delivered and picked up.  There are many individuals who are willing to provide for the opportunity to vote twice this year.  Please think of all the people that will be affected if you ask for a special election.

Point #4.  An arrogant attitude.  Many voters will perceive that you regard your referendum so important that it deserves a special election.

Worse scenario – the jail expansion wants a June election, Center Grove seeks a July election, the library board requests an August election and the merger group decides that their issue merits a September special election.

Ridiculous?  Yes.  But that could happen if each group feels their issue merits a special election.  Arrogant?  Haughty?  Superior?  That may not be your intent but that is what will be perceived if you request a special election.

Point #5.  Referendum language.  Legal counsel may tell you to keep the referendum language simple, vague and general.  Taxpayers want specifics  – How much additional taxes do you want?  What for?  And for how long?

In summary – Please show some good common sense and judgement; not just a hard-nosed attitude about getting what you want when you want it.  Otherwise you may find that a worthwhile topic is voted down, not because of the issue, but rather due to the timing, funding, lack of consideration of others, the attitude, poor judgment, or the language in the referendum.

Remember, sometimes it’s not about what you want but how you go about getting what you want.

Thanks for listening.  Please, no special election.

Dick Huber, M.D.

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