No one wants their taxes to increase. However, in Burlingame, we have had issues with flooding and standing water for decades because our infrastructure has deteriorated. There is a solution, and the "big fix" will only cost the average taxpayer approximately 36 cents per day. That seems a small price to pay for a great deal of benefit.

Measure H, which is on the ballot in November, is designed to repair and replace our failing storm drainage system and at the same time address some of the safety issues that surround many of our public buildings.

Just as you would need to replace your inefficient, can't-get-the-parts-for it-anymore, just-about-to-blow, leaky clunker of a furnace before you install the backyard swimming pool, Burlingame needs to prioritize the community's needs versus its wants in order to protect itself from future disasters.

Let's face it, fixing the storm drains isn't glamorous. It's necessary. Even those in Burlingame who have never experienced flooding should support "the big fix."

Imagine if Burlingame chose to ignore these repairs. Our town would gain the reputation as a city that neglected its duties, allowing the town to flood resulting in damage to property, as well as increasing health and safety concerns and decreasing property values.
For example, what if you found yourself in a situation such as a medical emergency, but due to flooding on El Camino Real, Laguna, Grove or Rollins, emergency vehicles could not reach you?

But for an average of $11 per month, you can receive the help you need and rest easier.

I will be supporting Measure H because I know that pennies a day will improve the quality of life in Burlingame for at least another generation. I hope you will, too. Please vote YES on Measure H and send your donations to The Committee to Fix Our Flooding, P.O. Box 1692, Burlingame, CA 94011-1692. For more info, log on to:www.protectburlingame.org.

Russ Cohen

– Written by russ