Austin Public School District 492 is asking voters to renew two existing levy referendums that contribute a combined $1.5 million per year. One of those levies was passed by district voters in 1995. As one of the tri-chairs for the “Levy ‘95” committee that helped pass the referendum during a very difficult period of state cuts in funding for education, I am asking voters to please vote yes for renewal of both levies.

With the state now facing a large deficit, extending both levies is essential to maintaining some degree of stability for the district during these difficult times — renewing the school district referendum will result in no new school taxes. The district administration has done a good job of managing its resources. A yes vote is necessary to keep the district moving forward and to provide quality education to our students. Thank you for consideration.

David C. Ruzek

Austin