We're all getting tested in ways nobody could've expected, and we're lucky to have Gov. Newsom and all those on the frontlines leading us through this crisis. But there's no sugarcoating it: Our schools, essential workers and local governments are facing unprecedented threats of budget cuts.

We have some tough times ahead of us, and we're going to need reasonable solutions to claw our way out of this crisis.

The Schools & Communities First initiative, now Proposition 15 on the November ballot, garnered a record 1.7 million signatures of support. It would close corporate property tax loopholes to bring back $12 billion locally for our schools, essential workers, and critical local services while protecting homeowners and renters, small businesses, and agriculture. What's more, research has shown that only 10% of the biggest, wealthiest commercial and industrial properties would generate 92% of the new revenue — meaning a fraction of top corporations would finally pay their fair share.

Simply put, we can't afford corporate tax loopholes at the expense of our schools and local services anymore.

Eva Orbuch

Senior community organizer, Innovate Public Schools

Women in office

There has been much coverage of the fact that many more women are running for office than in years past both here in Silicon Valley and the country at large. I'd like to comment on why it is important that women have a seat at all levels of government. It is not that women are better than men. It is because women govern differently than men. Studies show that women are more collaborative, less partisan and more goal-oriented than men. In other words, women "get things done." In today's world where the word "government" is often synonymous with "gridlock," this is important.

A local volunteer nonpartisan organization called WIRE for Women helps elect and appoint women to local offices. This pipeline of women will help "get things done" when given a chance to sit at the tables where decisions are made.

Remember, Margaret Thatcher famously said "If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman."

Carol Mayer Marshall

Founder and president emeritus, WIRE for Women

Claire Place, Menlo Park