Letter: I support OCCC’s plan for trades education center

As a longstanding resident of Lincoln County who is deeply invested in our community's welfare and education, I urge your support for Bond Measure 21-224 supporting OCCC’s plan to build a new trades education center.

Maintaining a residence in our area poses unique challenges. We frequently rely on skilled professionals such as electricians, plumbers, well-pump maintenance experts, appliance repair technicians, and small engine mechanics (for chainsaws, etc.). They often can’t get to you for weeks because they don’t have enough qualified staff. In my conversations with these workers, a common concern emerges: the dwindling number of young people entering these vital professions. Despite the ample, well-paying opportunities available, there's a noticeable shortage of qualified applicants.

Investing in promoting these trades is not only beneficial for our community's immediate needs, but also for its long-term sustainability. Measure 21-224 offers a promising solution without increasing our taxes. By supporting this measure, we can equip our young people with valuable career options in much-needed positions while ensuring the prosperity of our entire community.

Carol Rasmussen

Newport