As election day draws near, the USD 257 school bond initiative has taken center stage as, perhaps, the most important community issue to face most residents during their lifetimes. Unfortunately, the campaign has proven divisive in the community at large and in our own organization as well. As has been reported, the majority of the Board of Thrive Allen County did vote to support the initiatives and the plans developed by the USD 257 school board based on their individual feelings.

However, it would be unfair for us to fail to recognize that our executive director has expressed his opposition to this action and has, in fact, offered his resignation. His objection is to our organization taking a position on an issue not initiated by Thrive which undermines our ability to unite a divided community after November 4th. We have the greatest respect for our executive director and the rest of our staff. Thrive has had much success as a driving force in promoting a healthier community through numerous initiatives and we firmly believe that this success has grown out of the mutual respect held by our board and staff and our commitment to work through difficult issues together. The members of the Thrive board have determined not to accept the resignation of our executive director.

The Thrive board does not propose to argue the pros and cons of the issue in this statement. While board members will continue to support the school initiative individually, a majority of the board members have agreed that the Thrive organization must and will maintain a neutral position on the bond issue. Board members and staff alike are free to and are encouraged to campaign on the issue in accord with their individual beliefs and we ask all parties to remember that the future of our community lies not in buildings, old or new, but in the commitment of all citizens to build a better future. Just as our organization has overcome its divisions, whatever the outcome on election day we ask you to come together and join us in continuing to work for a healthier and more prosperous Allen County.

Brian Wolfe, MD, Thrive Board Chairman, Iola
Alan Weber, Humboldt
Karen Gilpin, Iola
Tosca Harris, Petrolia
Don Burns, Gas
Georgia Masterson, Iola
Kathy Ward, Moran