
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: MONDAY, June 21, 1993                   TAG: 9306220355
SECTION: EDITORIAL                    PAGE: A-6   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

LET SALEM VOTERS DECIDE THE ISSUE

PETITIONS are being circulated in Salem for a November referendum on the method of selecting School Board members. These members are currently appointed by City Council. The referendum will determine whether they will be directly elected by Salem voters.

The answers to four questions show the importance of this petition drive.

Why should I sign a petition if I favor the direct election of Salem's School Board members?

Signing a petition to put the referendum on the ballot is the only means by which a voter can hope to bring about this election.

Why should I sign a petition if I oppose the direct election of Salem's School Board members?

The important decision for Salem to have its own school system was made without direct voter approval. A referendum on this election will help send a message to City Council that important future decisions should be made by the voters at the ballot box.

Why should I sign a petition if I do not know enough about the Salem school system to make an informed decision about the selection of School Board members?

The referendum would generate much pro and con discussion that will enable each voter to make an informed decision.

Why should I sign a petition if I am not interested in the Salem school system?

Salem's last local referendum was in 1974 (Sunday closing law for retail businesses), and its elected officials need to become more accustomed to the use of referenda for responsible taxing and spending decisions.

I hope voters will support this petition drive. AARON SMITH SALEM

by CNB