It is vital that Harrison County citizens vote on Saturday, Dec. 16, to approve renewal of the excess school levy for another five years. Continuation of the levy is something the voters of Harrison County have done eight consecutive times -- since 1955.

Much is at stake. There are 26 public schools in Harrison County with a net enrollment of 11,650. Passage of the levy will not mean an increase in taxes. However, it will mean free textbooks, school and instructional equipment and supplies for grades kindergarten through 12.

In short, Harrison countians can't afford not to show up at the polls and cast their votes for the excess school levy. The current one will expire June 30, 2001. If parents had to face an outlay of their income for textbooks, school equipment and supplies, surely they would soon realize the importance of approving the levy.

Equally important is the technological enhancement of grades K-12. That would consist of instructional and support programs, including the cost to the school system of computers, wiring, software, furniture and electronic equipment. Remember, supporting the levy will not mean an increase in taxes.

Furthermore, programs in art, band, music, physical education, science, special education, theater and vocational education would be enriched with passage of the excess school levy.

All of these features will be available to Harrison County public school students, and without an increase in taxes -- for school parents or other county residents without children or grandchildren.

What about the allocations to schools and the availability of services? What changes will be involved with passage of continuation of the levy? Technology? There will be an increase in allocations. The same thing goes for fine arts and theater, vocational education, extracurricular academic and athletic activities, and buildings, buses and vehicles. All of these things -- without a tax increase for Harrison residents.

The Harrison County school system has been one of the most highly respected in the state over the years. This distinction will surely continue to exist and even grow with passage of the levy.

If our area is to be a viable contender for businesses locating here, our infrastructure is of utmost importance to prospective new corporations and industries. The quality of our schools is of monumental importance in this scheme of things.

The vote is six short days away. Please determine today that you will mark your ballot beside "for" continuing the school excess levy -- and follow through on Saturday, Dec. 16.

Today's editorial reflects the opinions of both the Exponent and Telegram editorial boards.