Monroe School District going back to voters

Monroe School District voters will be asked to renew a levy that expires next year in an upcoming special election. The resulting revenue will help cover costs for security, transportation, special education, support programs and extracurriculars.

The district’s board of directors unanimously approved putting the Replacement of Expiring School Program and Operations (SP&O) levy on the Feb. 13 ballot, according to a district news release. The vote took place at last Monday’s meeting.

“Quite simply, we are asking our community to replace our local levy so we can continue to deliver on our commitment of powerful instruction, equitable access and high expectations to all of our students,” said Superintendent Dr. Fredrika Smith in the release.

The financial impact will not be new for the community, she said.

Rates would not rise above the $1.50 for every $1,000 of the assessed property value, according to the release. For a property assessed at $300,000, the replacement levy would equate to about $450 every year, or $37.50 a month.

Smith said the tax revenue will also help offset what the state is not fully funding. The Washington Legislature decided to increase state funding and reduce “the amount of local taxes school districts can request and collect” in July, according to the release.

Voters approved the current SP&O levy in 2014. If passed, the renewed levy could generate nearly $51.7 million for the district between 2019 and 2022.

“In the event that the voter approved maximum collection amount is reached, the rate would be divided evenly amongst all taxpayers, resulting in a decrease in the rate,” according to the release.

The voting period for the special election begins Jan. 26. Ballots must be postmarked by midnight on Feb. 13 and can be dropped off at the 24-hour secure ballot drop box near the library at 1070 Village Way in Monroe.