I just requested a lawn sign related to the November election. I haven’t had a campaign sign since the 2013 election, and in general, don’t intend to have any during my 5 year tenure as mayor. This, however, is different. It’s not partisan, it’s not for an individual, it is, however, really important for our city. This November 3rd, we will be voting for our future. Yeah, I know… melodramatic… but true. We will vote ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to a referendum to fund additions in our elementary schools for safety. An additional K-4 school and an addition for grades 5 & 6 to Horizon Middle School. Why? Because we are growing, and more to the point, kids entering the Moorhead School systems are growing exponentially. Moorhead is a young community, with the median age of 28 and growth means young children. The incoming Kindergarten class has grown to 576 kids. I remember when my own kids had a class size that was not much over 400. Sam and Lyndi graduated in 2011 and 2013, respectively. Moorhead is growing at a pretty good clip, and if you look at who is moving in, you notice a lot of young couples with little kids. Many cities would love to have that youth; that vibrancy. When I go to Minnesota events, that is what other mayors are interested in to talk about. They have heard about our growth. Moorhead is known locally for our wonderful schools. This will help us maintain that edge. The growth helps us do it in a much lower cost per household. If you have a chance to see their presentation, I hope you will do that. Additional information can be found at www.moorheadschools.org/referendum. If you would like to join me and have a sign on your lawn, you can send a request to yesformoorheadschools@gmail.com. #SpudPride