Dear Editor,

As chairman of the Building for Education Committee, I can assure you that:

1. Nash County is growing. New schools are needed at all grade levels. Old schools need repair and renovation-replacing roofs, heating units, adding classrooms, updating technology, etc. Nash Community College is serving more students than ever and is one of the fastest growing community colleges in the state. Annual enrollment is continuing to increase to meet the higher educational needs of our community. The County Jail, Senior Center, and Animal Shelter are in need or repair and expansion. These improvements will have to be made in the near future so Nash County can continue to have a competitive workforce and be a great place to live and work. If approved by the voters, the Nash County Commissioners have committed the fund allocation as follows:

80% Education

Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools and Nash Community College

10% Public Safety

Sheriff's Department and Emergency Services

10% Community Facilities

Senior Center, Animal Shelter, etc.

The Board of Nash Community College and Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools have publicly supported this effort-and we believe it's what is best or the future of Nash County.

2. Since these capital needs are for physical facilities and not program operations, the question is not whether to fund the improvements, but rather how to fund them. We believe the sales tax is the best way. The sales tax would cost the consumer one penny for every $4 spent in purchasing goods (except this tax would not be included on purchases of groceries, cars or homes) and would generate about $2.8 million per year-which would be paid not only by residents, but also by the many visitors who shop, eat and sleep in Nash County. It would generate revenue equivalent to a five cent property tax increase; since keeping the property tax as low as possible is important in helping our elderly and disabled citizens on fixed incomes who cannot afford higher property taxes.

So, please join us in voting for the quarter-cent sales tax on May 6. Remember, that's only one penny for every $4. It is a sound investment in the future of Nash County and one that will yield positive dividends for years to come.

J. Reid Parrott Jr.

Nash County Building for Education Committee