Letter: Many questions about school parcel tax

EDITOR,
I recall years ago when the Scotts Valley School District said they had enough money for any contingency. This statement was made in regard to enough funds being available to build the high school and fix the middle school.
We all found out this was not the case, and it has hurt our school system ever since. I do not believe the school district was dishonest, but it lacked detailed knowledge of budget and forecasting; plus, they were not forthcoming when questioned about certain issues.
Our schools really need cash, and I hope the school district will do proper due diligence and accounting of how they arrived at the $48-per-parcel three-year tax.
Why three years instead of five? How was the $300,000 arrived at, and what protection is there to assure the public that the funds will only be used for the specific purpose designated? I remember the school district said there would be no Friday night football, there would be proper landscaping, no loudspeakers, etc., but we all know this is not the case.
I wonder why seniors are exempt from the parcel tax. We all benefit from a well-funded school district, and we are probably more financially sound then you think. I hope the school district will address my questions at the March 9 public hearing at 9 a.m. I look forward to an open discussion.
Tom Phalen, Scotts Valley