But it is not so difficult to picture twice as much of anything - doubling gets our attention. Doubling also marks major change. Twice as many cars, twice as much noise, twice as many houses, or twice the cost of a commodity is easily seen as important. Likewise, the doubling time for a population has major implications for space and services, competition for access or time and stress on natural areas. And studies, including a recent one called the Cost of Growth for the State of Washington, clearly show that residential development is a fiscal burden to existing residents.
More people mean more services and schools.
Following the tragic shootings of students in Littleton, Colorado, students were surveyed. They felt that when the school became too big the sense of community was lost. Cliques and gangs formed as a result of some groups of kids looking for their own community. With the spiraling growth rate it is no surprise that area schools are constantly dealing with overcrowding school issues. North Branch is considering a school referendum this spring.