EVERETT, FEB. 11: Initial results from the Special Election show both propositions proposed by Everett Public Schools (EPS) District passing.
The School Construction Bond, which needs 60% of the vote, currently has 62.60% of the vote. The Education Levy renewal, which requires 50% plus one vote to pass, has 63.35% of the vote as of Tuesday, Feb. 10.
“We are truly grateful that voters showed up to support our students, staff, families, and community,” Dr. Ian B. Saltzman, superintendent of EPS, said in a statement. “We take this trust seriously and are committed to using public resources responsibly and transparently so every child can succeed.”
Election results will continue to be updated by Snohomish County Elections in the coming days, and the election will be certified following the completion of ballot counting.
If both propositions were to pass, homeowners’ tax rates would be $3.98 per $1,000 Assessed Value (AV), an increase of $0.30, EPS representatives said during a city council meeting last month.
The bond will allow EPS to address renovations, safety improvements, new construction and maintenance over the next eight years. The bond funds, totaling $396.8 million, can only be used for capital projects.
EPS plans to use the funds to construct a new elementary school, add 12 additional classrooms to existing schools and reduce the need for portable classrooms.
Additionally, the bond will be used improve and integrate safety and security systems and update and build facilities at two high schools.
The Education Levy would provide funding for staffing, programs and daily operations. The levy on the ballot is a renewal of an already existing education levy.
Funds will be put towards academic programs like STEM, Highly Capable, and Advanced Placement. Additionally, it will be used to support teachers, custodians, and health room staff – positions not fully funded by state resources.
To learn more about the bond and levy, see the EPS informational website.
