Having spent the first 18 years of my life as a resident of Lewiston/Auburn, I still have great loyalty to “my state.” I read the Sun Journal online almost every day.

I am particularly concerned about the recent discussions regarding the school budget of Auburn.

As a new resident of Washington state, I can say that Mainers are not alone in dealing with shortfalls and decreasing tax revenue. Those who say they would accept increased property taxes if that would improve the quality of education seem to be suffering the same delusions as my Washington neighbors suffer.

Those who insist that better schools attract businesses are, more than likely, dreaming.

The reality in the state of Washington, as in Maine, is that high property taxes deter businesses more than do better schools. Tax abatements and political favors are what attract businesses.

Throwing money at schools does not make for better education.

Parental involvement, fiscally responsible administrators, and dedicated teachers are the core of “good schools.”

Raymond Tiffany, Olympia, Wash.