CHIMACUM — An online poll asking residents what they would support in a February school bond issue closes Wednesday.
More than 200 people have answered the survey, which began last Wednesday.
“What we are hoping for is to get as many people as possible to help us formulate a bond,” said Rick Thompson, district superintendent.
“This is a decision that will affect taxes, and it’s really important they have a say in the development of facilities solutions.”
The survey presents two scenarios, which Thompson said are starting points to help better understand the community perspective and develop the final project list.
The expected Feb. 9 ballot measure would come exactly one year after the defeat of a $34.8 million bond proposal.
The measure received 50.88 percent support but fell short of the 60 percent majority required for passage.
Communication issue?
After that defeat, the district began plans to approach the voters again, attributing the defeat to poor communication about the need for the various improvements and not beginning the process early enough.
The deadline to submit the new ballot measure to the county auditor is Dec. 11, which would give the district two months to generate support.
The survey describes a base scenario and two options for the bond issue, asking for participants to state the strengths and weaknesses of each.
Both scenarios include the expansion and modernization of the primary school, support for a safety and security upgrade, an update of electrical and mechanical systems, improved technology and building upgrades.
The first scenario also includes the modernization of K-12 facilities, renovating the auditorium and adding a foyer, the creation of a middle school learning resources facility and the construction of a new administration building.
The second scenario also includes the modernization of facilities and fields, the construction of a new stadium, the construction of a new alternative learning system, new tennis courts, an all-weather track, field lighting, bleachers, the construction of a concession building, more parking and the installation of an artificial turf field.
The total cost for the first scenario is estimated at $41 million, which represents a tax rate increase of $1.71 (per $1,000 assessed value for 20 years).
Second scenario
The second scenario has an estimated cost of $38 million, representing a tax rate increase of $1.64 per $1,000 of assessed value.
Thompson said the final ballot measure will be a composite of the two options, with the projected costs to be amended.
The first phase, the current survey, is designed to share ideas with the school system.
The second phase will consolidate all of the recommendations for public comment, and the third phase will allow participants to discover what issues are important.
In anticipation of the survey, the district sent out invitations and links to parents, staff and community members.
Those who have not received an invitation can participate by going to http://tinyurl.com/PDN-bond-poll, even if they don’t live in the district.
________
Jefferson County Editor Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or cbermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
