Proposition 172

* In 1993 the majority of our state’s population voted to approve a tax initiative, Proposition 172, a half-cent sales tax. The tax was intended to support the necessary growth of the criminal justice system in the interest of public safety.

Public support of this measure was prompted by the growing crime rate, which was threatening the safety of life and property in our communities.

Now, six years later, our elected representatives in quest for dollars to fund other needs are moving to use these dollars to fund other programs not intended in the original proposition. This is wrong and deceptive.

If it were not for the press we would not be aware of what happens behind closed doors and, as years pass and memories fade, the original intent would be lost in the quagmire of the system. It is no wonder voter turnout continues to fall in each election.

RICHARD W. GREEN

Thousand Oaks