Former Midlothian school board member disagrees with property tax rate reduction

Dear Editor,

Houston, we have a problem. While billions of people slept, Apollo 13 was on a journey that was only on course 2 percent of the time. Fortunately, a sharp team of leaders in Houston Space Center was able to target the problems and develop a unique solution for each problem.

Folks, Chesterfield is off course, and the leaders (supervisors) in the control tower have lost sight of their target. The silent majority of citizens in Chesterfield must step up to the plate and voice their concerns. This is a fantastic community! The old mantra "tighten your belt and sharpen your pencil" will not be the total solution if we plan to stand out as a 21st century community. Another two cents decrease in the [property] tax rate in the name of helping our citizens is not supported by the facts, nor is it helping the community.

The two groups that have launched Chesterfield into being selected as one of the top 100 communities are our strong teaching staff and our police officers - i.e. education and safety. They are now on the chopping block as expendable with limited recognition in their compensation package. I don't get it!

Another correction must be made if Chesterfield is to get back on course: the shift of running a campaign, which is all about me, to running a county, which is all about we. The oath taken as an elected official calls for responsible cooperation and respect to move us in our economy, education, safety and life in Chesterfield County. I know the people in the control room have the potential to accomplish this mission. Let's get down to business!

Jim Schroeder

Chesterfield