EVERETT — Ballots are due Tuesday for special elections in 13 local school districts, where voters are deciding the fate of measures to fund education programs, technology upgrades and capital projects.
Across Snohomish County, a dozen school districts are asking voters to approve four-year levies to pay for classroom staff, special education services and extracurricular activities not covered with state dollars. Each proposed levy would replace one set to expire at the end of 2022.
Combined, these propositions would generate $329.1 million for the districts in 2023, the first year of collections, and $1.41 billion over the course of four years.
In addition, nine districts are seeking approval of separate capital or technology levies to replace ones expiring at the end of the year. These would collectively bring in $592.6 million. The largest is Everett’s six-year, $325.5 million proposal.
Northshore School District also has a $425 million bond on the ballot, giving it three tax measures in the special election.
A simple majority is required to pass the education program and capital levies. Northshore will need support of at least 60% of voters to pass its bond.
Ballots returned by mail do not require a stamp but must be postmarked by Tuesday to be counted. They also can be placed in a designated ballot drop box.
And it is not too late to participate. State law allows a person to register and vote on the day of an election.
Same-day registration must be done in person. You can do so between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. at the Snohomish County Auditor’s office, 3000 Rockefeller Ave. in Everett, or at accessible voting centers at the Alderwood Water and Wastewater District, 3626 156th St. SW in Lynnwood, and the Wyndham Garden Hotel, 16710 Smokey Point Blvd. in Arlington.
For any last-minute issues, contact the Snohomish County elections office at 425-388-3444.
Jerry Cornfield: 360-352-8623; jcornfield@heraldnet.com; Twitter: @dospueblos.
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