People are talking! Here is a sample of what voters are expressing while I have been canvassing neighborhoods:

Regarding 15-210, changing the 1908 City Charter:

• “Why do they (City Council and city manager) want to do this? Is it just another power grab?” Frank, 56.
• “I watch the meetings on TV. They’re not going to get my vote on this; they can’t manage city affairs as it is. Why do they think they can manage Park affairs?” Julie, 70.
• “Yes, let’s keep our Park system away from city politics; I’ll vote ‘no.’” Joanne, 63.
• “I don’t like the idea of dismantling our Parks and dis-empowering our Parks Commissioners; I’ll vote No.” Regina, 66.

Regarding 15-211, the Food and Beverage Tax:

• “I’ll definitely vote ‘no’ on this; I want to do away with that tax forever, so I sure don’t want to extend it another five years.” Maria, 46
• “They can’t manage the general fund; I’d like to see the money go to Parks, especially if it is earmarked for a new pool.” Mike, 53.
• “I know the city has reduced Park’s budget drastically this past year, resulting in degraded appearance of some parks. I think Parks could use the money to make improvements to the golf course, the duck pond, and such.” Ellen, 49.

Regarding both:

• “Thank you for canvassing and providing this information on these measures!” Jim, 77.
• “I haven’t seen much information on these confusing measures; thank you for making it more clear.” Paula, 43.
• I’ve seen the lawn signs around town on this but didn’t know much about them; now I do and will study them more; thank you.” Peggy, 55.

Vote “no” on both ballot measures 15-210 and 15-211.

Rebecca Kay

Ashland