Can’t afford to say no

Contrary to the misrepresentation in Saturday’s op-ed, Burien does not have a problem with vandalism, open alcohol, drug dealing or prostitution in its commercial district and we think that’s a good idea for White Center, too [“Reject the proposal to annex White Center to Burien,” Opinion, Nov. 3].

Burien is in better fiscal shape than 90 percent of Washington cities and wants to maintain our public library and parks rather than having them closed or fall into disrepair with the county. Burien wants to maintain the uniqueness of White Center and give us an active voice in shaping the future together.

These are real benefits for local families and businesses — not a broken system or offers of a low bidder as the op-ed portrays.

Most know that with annexation to Burien property taxes will decrease and business taxes will stay in the community to strengthen it, unlike now with King County. Most know that if Burien annexation fails, King County will push for annexation elsewhere. Seattle will be next, with business taxes three times higher and little staying in the neighborhood or the school district.

We can’t afford to say no to annexation.

— Doug Harrell, Seattle

— Justin Cline, Seattle

— Michael & Elizabeth Gordon, Seattle