(Letter to the Editor - Graphic Illustration/MetroCreativeConnection)

An important decision impacting students in the Belpre City School District will be made on Election Day Nov. 8. Voters will be considering the Belpre City Schools Building Levy issue, asking for a 37-year commitment to fund a new public school complex.

Admittedly, construction of any kind brings expense, and public facilities of this size carry a seemingly large price tag. But, what price is too high for the return achieved when education is of high quality and the facilities are built to benefit residents of all ages?

As the leading promoter of business expansion in the Belpre Area, this chamber recognizes the relationship of quality education and facilities to a premier business climate. Businesses as well as residents look for quality schools when deciding to locate in an area.

So, “The Time is Now.” It is vital to provide modern facilities with a safe and healthy environment designed to fit the district’s plans for our children’s educations in the next decades. The district MUST take advantage of currently available funding from the State of Ohio to make this facility possible for our community.

The Board of Directors of Belpre Area Chamber of Commerce believes the combination of the district’s work to improve educational delivery through good teaching and appropriate curriculum united with modern school building facilities will lead to a local workforce prepared to fill the needs of our businesses and prepare students for the next steps in their educations.

The Board of Directors of Belpre Area Chamber of Commerce endorses the passage of this ballot initiative.

Karen Waller

Executive Director

Belpre Area Chamber of Commerce