Ballots sent for special election on public schools’ funding

EVERETT — Ballots went out Thursday to voters who will decide the fate of critical funding measures for public schools across Snohomish County.

A dozen school districts are seeking approval in a Feb. 8 special election for four-year levies to pay for education programs, extracurricular activities like athletics and academic offerings not covered by the state.

Each measure proposes to replace a levy set to expire at the end of 2022.

Nine districts are seeking passage of separate capital or technology levies to replace ones expiring at the end of the year. These will be used for purposes such as buying computers for students, installing new roofs and heating systems and, in the case of Everett School District, replacing two aging elementary schools.

A simple majority is required for approval of an education program or capital levy.

The Northshore School District is also seeking voter approval of a $425 million bond to finance major capital improvements. Support of at least 60% of voters is required to pass that bond measure.

Ballots returned by mail do not require a stamp. But they must be postmarked no later than Feb. 8. Be sure to check the last collection time on the postal box, because ballots that arrive with a postmark after Election Day will not be counted.

Another option is to use one of the county’s designated ballot drop boxes. These will be open around the clock until 8 p.m. Feb. 8.

A person can register or update an existing registration online at votewa.gov or by mail through Jan. 31. After that, a person can register as well as vote in person at the county elections office during business hours and until 8 p.m. on the day of the election.

If you do not receive a ballot by Jan. 27, you are encouraged to contact the elections office at 425-388-3444 or elections@snoco.org.

Jerry Cornfield: 360-352-8623; jcornfield@heraldnet.com; Twitter: @dospueblos.