Letter: Gavilan officials neglect voters

Gavilan College officials have not represented San Benito County in a fair and equitable way. Their actions indicate a woeful lack of support for the growth of higher education in our county. This practice has prevailed for the past 12 years. During this time time, Gavilan’s governing decisions regarding the funding of major improvements have been directed to the Santa Clara County campuses. This approach has been the policy since the successful passage of the 2004 Measure E Bond election. Gavilan’s board and administration have refused to follow the directive of the voters of San Benito County to develop an educational center in the downtown area. This plan has been formally proposed to the Gavilan board by the City of Hollister, and rejected. Our community cannot wait 20 years for Gavilan’s grandiose plan for a new campus on the Airline Highway and Fairview site.
What recourse do we have as taxpaying citizens of San Benito County? There are many local students who would benefit greatly by having a downtown campus.
John E. Bessa, San Benito County