No vote was not selfish

I would like someone to explain to me why I am being characterized as selfish.

I was furloughed by the University of Iowa in 2009, and got a job in Minneapolis, and drove five hours up and back for 20 months. No, I wasn't technically flooded, but I did have major damage from the rain, which required a new roof, new furnace, and new patio door, all of which I have repaired with high quality. But there is still the retaining wall to go, and the estimate on that is $5,000 minimum.

Two months ago my company, let me work from home, so I no longer have any commute, but these pressing issues at my house need doing, and those 20 months cost me a great deal. I tried to sell during that time but found out I was “under water” on the mortgage, and besides, Iowa has been my home for over 30 years, so I don't want to leave.

I ran for state Senate in 1998, and one of the issues that I ran on was that we ought to spend other people's money well. I take home only 73 percent of what I make, along with paying $2,400 a year in property taxes and $100 a month in water bills. Why isn't that enough?

Yes, I voted no (sales tax extension referendum). Please note: the flood affected more people than those in the flood zone.

Mary Howard

Cedar Rapids