Arguments in his recent guest column about the Bend-La Pine Schools bond are short sighted and narrowly focused. The proposed levy targets a number of funding gaps, and not just technical education — the only one addressed by Mr. Ron Smith. Support for alternative career paths should not be deferred to community colleges where students may not be able to handle costs. Opportunity should be offered to students early in support of good career alternatives. And what’s all this weeping about higher taxes? Bend residents can afford them, and they are an investment in our collective future. We benefited from those who invested in us, and our debt can best be repaid by further investment in our students, teachers and schools.

— Paul C. White, Bend

Kudos to Ron Smith for his May 2 guest column. His thoughts on the Bend school bond levy were well thought out, supported by facts, and articulated in a way that all Bendites should consider. Many thanks for giving voice to thoughts shared by many.

— Brad King, Bend

When I mention Phil Chang to my friends and neighbors their response is often, “Phil? He’s a great guy!” I agree. He’s also a great county commissioner whom I’ll be voting for this month. I hope you’ll join me. Here’s why:

Phil’s lived in Deschutes County for over 20 years and raised his son here. He cares deeply about our community and, as county commissioner for the past three years, he has consistently made decisions that reflect the values of Central Oregonians. He’s voted time and again against rural sprawl and more water-sucking destination resorts; in support of expanding access to mental health care for our community; and for initiatives to create housing that Central Oregonians can actually afford.

Phil is level-headed, humble and thoughtful. He’s a problem-solver. He also brings a wealth of expertise to our county with his 30+ years of experience in natural resource management. That’s expertise that benefits us all in terms of how our local government addresses wildfire prevention, water conservation and smart growth.

Phil is a great guy. People across the board agree: he’s endorsed by Democrats, Republicans and independents. Join me in voting to keep Phil in office and working to ensure that Deschutes County remains a great place to live, work and play.

— Angelique Loscar, Bend

I have known Judy since her days in Salem working for the state Senate.

Unlike her opponents, Judy has the most experience to be the next county commissioner for Deschutes County.

She is a cool head and has the skills to work with anyone, and yet not compromise on what is best for county residents. One of her goals is to find alternatives to unsanctioned camping on county land, by coordinating and collaborating with non-profits, cities, public agencies, and public safety organizations to provide services and help to those with psychiatric disabilities.

As founder and president of Sisters Community Foundation, executive director of Sisters Chamber of Commerce, a chief of staff for Oregon State Senate, a Sisters city councilor, and a council president, and with seats on the Deschutes County Budget Committee and Commission on Children and Families, Judy has the experience needed to be our next Deschutes County commissioner. Join me in voting for Judy Trego.

— Joyce Waring, Redmond

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