We should all be very thankful for the staff at Westlake for the job they do everyday and for the hospital. No one in this community wants the hospital to close nor have anyone lose their jobs.

However, the petition is not to stop the hospital tax, it is simply to get it on the ballot so that this community has a right to vote one way or another.

Yes, we know how hard it is to find good jobs in this area and in an already stressed economy having another tax increase could mean a family losing their home or vehicle, and worse maybe having to get a second or third job just to have ends meet and not being able to spend time with their families.

We, as Americans have a right to voice our opinions and to be heard. Voting is a way to be heard. Whether you are against the tax or for it, signing the petition will NOT stop the hospital tax. By signing the petition you are saying that you want the issue on the ballot to be voted on thru a democratic process. Sincerely, - Wendy Gousha