At their January meeting, 46th District Republicans voted to endorse passage of the Seattle Public Schools¹ Operating and Capital Levies. Neither of the proposed levies impose new taxes. Instead, they represent renewals of existing levies. The vote is scheduled for Feb. 6.

 The Operating Levy provides almost a quarter of the school district¹s day-to-day operating costs. For example, school libraries, a sixth class for high school students, instructional aides and enhanced music, arts and athletics are some of the programs this levy helps fund.

 Unlike many expensive government projects, Seattle¹s current ³Building Excellence² Capital Levy for renovating or replacing 19 schools, is on time and on budget. The follow-on capital levy will allow upgrading, expanding or rebuilding 17 schools and enhances technology for every school.

 Renovation of Roosevelt, Garfield and Cleveland as well as facilities improvements at Nathan Hale, Ingraham, and Chief Sealth are scheduled projects affecting Seattle¹s high schools.

 The 46th District Republicans are concerned about several education issues, such as the federal government¹s Goals 2000 project, but recognize the need to provide essential school operating and capital funding.

 George W. Bush was right to stress the importance of improving our schools in his campaign and our endorsement of these levies advances his agenda.

 ‹ BOB GUTHRIE

 Chair, 46th District Republicans