BORDERLAND

Washington Local board to vote on 4.9-mill levy

6/18/2014
BLADE STAFF

Washington Local Board of Education is to vote today on a permanent, new-money levy to be placed on the Nov. 4 ballot.

The 4.9-mill levy would generate about $3.8 million a year. The levy’s purpose is split, with 4.3 mills dedicated to general operations, and 0.6 mills for “permanent improvements,” which covers many capital expenses.

If approved, the levy would cost the owner of a $100,000 home an extra $171.50 a year.

Washington Local voters approved a 4.9-mill new-money levy in 2011. District leaders are making a similar argument this year for the levy that they made in 2011, saying that reduced property values and reduced state aid have significantly reduced the district’s revenue.

Property tax levies require two votes: one to state a necessity for the levy, and the second to place the levy on the ballot. School board members passed the necessity vote on May 21.