Letter to the Editor: Proposition 1 threatens senior services, rec district

Dear Editor:

Several recent letters to the Greybull Standard have spoken in opposition to the passage of Proposition Number 1 which will appear on our general election ballot November 3. I, too, oppose the passage of Prop1 because it will adversely affect many of our, important, necessary local services. 

In general, the passage of Prop 1 would create greater risks to community health, safety, and wellbeing. Property taxes fund essential infrastructure - senior services, emergency medical response, fire protection, hospitals, water and sewer systems, schools, and libraries. A 50% statewide exemption would weaken these systems for years to come.

One particular organization which will be negatively affected by the passage of Prop 1 is our local senior center. Since I am a senior who has lived, been educated, and worked in Wyoming since 1960, I feel compelled to address this issue.

The Wyoming Senior Services Association formally opposes Proposition Number 1 because it threatens the stability of services seniors rely on. Its passage would result in long-term uncertainty for essential senior services. Currently there is no replacement plan and this would cause fewer staff, reduced meal programs, limited transportation routes, and longer waitlists for in-home support. Its passage would mean weakened partnerships between local governments and nonprofits. Declining revenue would lessen support for senior nutrition, transportation, and in-home services.

The Greybull Recreation District and recreation districts throughout the state are organizations which also would be negatively affected by the passage of Proposition Number 1. I serve as a board member for our Greybull Recreation District. Our budget is $130,607 for the current fiscal year. Prop 1 could potentially reduce our income by $40,000 to $42,000. If this reduction occurs, the board would be forced with making decisions such as increasing participation fees, reducing staff, and reducing hours. 

Rec center activities include roller skating, adult pickleball, flag football camp, intramural football, intramural soccer, gymnastics, yoga, a pre-school class for 3- to 5-year-olds, intramural volleyball, library craft day, and main street trick or treat. Raising rec fees along with so many other rising costs may prohibit some families from paying for rec fees for their children’s activities. 

Please vote no on Proposition 1!

Lynette Murray

Greybull