Dear Editor,
As a proud member of this community, I’m urging my neighbors to vote YES on the upcoming school bond, Ballot Issue 4C. This is our opportunity to make a smart, forward-looking investment in our schools – and in the future of our town.
Manitou Springs has a proud history of achieving great things. A walk through our community reveals names like Willie and Smischny – dedicated citizens who worked together to build cornerstone facilities such as the high school, middle school, and community pool.
Most of our school buildings are more than 50 years old. Outdated heating and cooling systems waste energy, cause school day interruptions and cost taxpayers up to 15% more each year. Many facilities fall short of ADA accessibility standards, and too many classrooms are ill-equipped for the hands-on, technology-driven learning today’s students need.
I’m encouraged that our district has shown real fiscal responsibility. District leadership has cut administrative positions by more than 20% and secured grant funding to stretch every dollar. They’ve done their part to operate efficiently, but the scale of these infrastructure needs goes beyond what can be addressed through budget cuts alone. Their effectiveness has been recognized statewide: the Colorado Department of Education recently awarded MSSD 14 the highest rating – Accredited with Distinction – something our district hasn’t achieved since 2018.
Strong schools strengthen our entire community – evidence shows that investing in schools attracts families, supports property values, and fuels local pride. Now it is our turn to do great things – our individual contributions will make a powerful difference in shaping the future of our school and community. A “yes” vote on the school bond is a vote for our children, our neighborhoods, and the long-term health of our community.
Sincerely,
Timothy Bresnahan
[Editor’s note Oct. 28: Changed to say “most” buildings are more than 50 years old.]
