Voters have just one more week to submit ballots for the Vancouver Public Schools’ levy election. The replacement educational maintenance and operations (M & O) levy is not a new tax. It will replace the levy expiring this year.
Ballots must be postmarked or dropped off at the Elections Drop Box by Feb. 9. The Drop Box is located on 14th Street between Franklin and Esther streets. On election day only, ballots also may be dropped off at some area schools. A list of school locations accepting ballots will be posted on Monday, Feb. 8, on the Clark County Elections website at https://www.clark.wa.gov/elections.
The replacement M & O levy will continue basic programs and services for three years: 2017, 2018 and 2019. The district is requesting authorization of $46.2 million for collection in 2017, $47.3 million in 2018 and $48.4 million in 2019. The current levy amount (for 2016) is $45.2 million. Levy amounts are limited by a state-set “levy lid.” Vancouver Public Schools is below that lid.
Projected replacement levy rates (per $1,000 of assessed property value) are $3.04 for 2017, $3.02 for 2018 and $3 for 2019. The current estimated levy rate for 2016 is $3.06.