See ‘Parcel Tax and a Name Conflict’
I read School Board candidate Robert Zirgulis’ letter to the editor lasy Friday, and I wanted to clear up any perceived ambiguities.
I did, indeed, host an organizational meeting for the committee that is supporting Measure EE.
A large group of concerned citizens, including but not limited to former Culver City Mayor Alan Corlin, City Councilman and former Culver City Mayor Gary Silbiger, former Culver City School Board Presidents Bob Knopf and Madeline Ehrlich, current School Board President Jessica Beagles-Roos, current School Board Vice President Saundra Davis, and former Culver City Treasurer Crystal Alexander, attended. Additionally, five of the seven candidates for the three open seats on the Board also attended.
With the state budget crisis causing deep cuts to Culver City schools, Measure EE (a tax of $8 per month on parcels in the city, for a period of five years) will:
• Maintain advanced math, science, technology and college-prep programs
• Preserve small class sizes
• Retain quality teachers
• Keep school libraries open
• Provide up-to-date instructional materials
• Protect art and music education programs
• Keep school facilities clean, safe and well maintained
One purpose of the organizational meeting was to provide the candidates with up-to-date information regarding Measure EE
Contrary to Mr. Zirgulis’ recollection, there was no conflict, nor any “conflict of interest” of any sort at the meeting. There was no “agreement to disagree,” and other than statements made by Mr. Zirgulis, there was absolutely no discussion of the merits of oil drilling.
While the committee initially focused on a name that included, Save Our Schools, we ultimately decided that the name was too close to Mr. Zirgulis’ personal group’s name.
As no one on the committee wanted to be confused with Mr. Zirgulis or his group in any manner, the committee opted for the name, Yes on EE = Educational Excellence.
Mr. Zeidman may be contacted at scott.zeidman@laslots.com
