It’s been a tough sell, trying to convince voters that the Fairgrounds need the financial help that the proposed 5-mill levy will bring. Especially here in Hamilton where we are all going to be seeing a roughly 42% increase in our property taxes. In the “timing is everything” category, this tax increase couldn’t come at a worse time for those of us supporting the Fair board’s request for help.
Never the less, the request deserves our consideration. Two of the roofs from the livestock buildings are in need of replacement and we can’t expect roofers to work for free. The structural integrity of the grandstands (and access to them) needs to be improved and we can’t expect contractors to do that for free. Much of the electrical work is not up to current safety codes and we ought not to expect electricians to do this for nothing. The same is true for the plumbing infrastructure. There isn’t enough money in the current available budget to take on these big but necessary repairs. As a community, we gain nothing and lose much if we allow our public spaces like the Fairgrounds to deteriorate.
We who live in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley are fortunate because of our public spaces – both wild and developed. These spaces define us, provide for us and are the basis for our experiences in this wonderful place. Given all these public spaces provide for us, maybe it’s time for us to consider giving something in return. Please join me in voting for the mill levy.
Linda Stoll
Hamilton