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Letter To The E ditor
Our community is at a crossroads. The recent discussions about the school bond issue have made it clear that we must decide what kind of future we want for Randolph.
As a parent with kids in this district, I care deeply about our schools. But this bond isn’t just about my family or yours; it’s about our entire school district involving Cedar, Pierce, and Wayne counties. Strong schools protect property values, attract new families, and show businesses that Randolph is worth investing in.
This bond isn’t about luxury or excess. It addresses urgent needs that have been postponed for too long. Most importantly, it means replacing two outdated buildings that are expensive to operate and inefficient to how education works today.
I understand the concerns about taxes, especially among our rural agricultural community. Did you know that recent legislative changes, such as Nebraska’s LB2, have reduced the taxable valuation of agricultural land for school bonds from 75 percent to 50 percent? LB2 significantly eased the tax burden on farmers. But the legislative changes also places limitations on Randolph Public Schools’ growth.
Passing the school bond issue is a strategic investment, ensuring our tax dollars go toward long-term solutions. Doing nothing isn’t free. Every year we delay leads to more wasted money on short-term fixes and rising repair costs. Randolph has always been a community that takes care of its own. Supporting this bond shows that is still true.
The last time this bond went to a vote, it failed by just a handful of affirmative ballots. This is a powerful reminder that every vote counts. And it’s a decision which will impact our community for decades.
This is about all of us — homeowners, business owners, farmers, parents, and seniors alike. Strong schools mean a strong Randolph. If you’re unsure where you stand, please seek out the facts. Attend meetings, ask questions, and dig into the details. But when it’s time to vote, please vote ‘Yes.’
Investing in our schools is investing in our community.
Let’s not look back with regret — let’s move forward with Randolph pride and purpose - where tomorrow is still built today.
- Benjamin Benton, former city administrator
