I am writing to ask everyone to please support the Recreation District No. 3 tax renewal and the Concordia Parish School Board tax renewal on May 1.

It is important for everyone to know that the recreation tax is not a new tax, just a renewal.

There are so many exciting projects going on with recreation in our area, highlighted by the soon-to-be built recreational complex.

The passage of this tax will enable the recreation district to continue with this project, as well as other projects down the road.

The new facility will be beneficial to the City of Vidalia and surrounding communities and will generate added income for our area.

The school board proposition is also a renewal of a currently existing sales and use tax, not a new tax.

Our school system is a very important part of bringing people and industry to our area.

We are very proud of the accomplishments of our school system over the past several years and with the passing of the tax can look forward to much more success, as well continued improvement to the facilities.

We are very fortunate to have exceptionally qualified teachers in our community and the passage of this tax will help keep those teachers, as well as recruit new highly-qualified teachers.

I am asking you to please make sure to vote yes on May 1.

Hyram Copeland

Vidalia mayor