ELECTION PRIMER

A Handy Guide For Voters

Here's a wrap-up of our suggestions for the April 8 ballot. Of course, the
decision's always yours, but please take the time to vote.

Boone Hospital Center trustee: Either Faith Phillips or Fred Parry would
make a good member of the county hospital's governing board. Parry, a radio
talk show host, says there is a sufficient number of board members from the
medical community. Phillips, a nurse, offers perspectives about the nursing
shortage, patient care and community outreach. You pick.

Columbia Board of Education: Two seats are available, and the two incumbent
members, Kerry Crist and Elton Fay, should continue in their roles. They
have the background and expertise to help guide the district through the
difficult period ahead.

School levy increase of 19 cents per $100 of assessed valuation: How long
will the state legislature have to deal with declining revenues and
increasing costs? The economic forecast is uncertain at best and, at worst,
bleak for several more years. One thing appears clear - local districts
will have to take up the slack in the form of budget cuts or tax increases.
Columbia Superintendent Jim Ritter and crew have put together a package
that combines the two. They make a strong argument against relying on the
reserve fund to close the gap. A 19-cent boost is prudent.

Council member, Second Ward: Three-term council member Chris Janku has been
a reliable advocate for his ward and the city. Voters should keep a good
thing going.

Council member, Sixth Ward: Incumbent John Coffman's decision to not seek
re-election leaves an open seat. Of the three contenders, Ben Orzeske
stands out. An East Campus resident, he had a key part in the process that
led to an urban overlay district to preserve the character of that
neighborhood and learned a lot about achieving consensus among diverse
interests and how city staff functions. Though he is Coffman's designate
for successor, he promises a conservative bent on fiscal matters. On other
issues, like environmental protection and green space, he's cut in
Coffman's mold.

Proposition 1: Would make possession of minor amounts of marijuana an
infraction under municipal law and would decriminalize possession and use
by some patients with a doctor's recommendation. This is a good proposal.
Drug prohibition causes more social upheaval than use. Funnel those
billions into education and rehabilitation. Though we can't solve a
national problem by city ordinance, we can do our part.