REPLACEMENT LEVY FACTS

Brenda Trogstad, Executive Director of Finance, discusses the importance of the replacement levy.

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Dear community members,

The upcoming replacement levy is critical to our continuing efforts to develop meaningful pathways/academies that are directly related to opportunities and careers for our students after high school graduation.

We are extremely grateful for the passage of the bond, which greatly improved our facilities, but it is very important to distinguish the difference between a bond and a replacement levy. The replacement levy handles day-to-day operations which without, would negatively impact our school district's momentum to continue to do the very best for our students. We appreciate your continued support.

Thank you,

Alex P. Apostle, Superintendent

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**NEW INFORMATION

• The new levy would not impose a new tax in addition to what is currently in place, but will replace the expired tax.
• The current rate is $2.50/$1,000 of assessed valuation.
• The current levy expires December 31, 2020; the replacement levy would begin January 1, 2021.
• The current levy was passed in 2017 with a rate of $4.29/$1,000 to collect $7,330,000.  The district was not allowed to collect this due to changes in the law.
• Shelton School District will receive matching money (approximately $3 million per year) from ‘levy equalization’ -- but only if the levy passes.
• The Replacement Levy provides about 8.5% of the district’s budget. These dollars support all or a part of many educational programs and services in addition to the maintenance of facilities.
• The levy amount to be collected is as follows:
  • 2021 — $5,500,000 (Maximum of $2.50 per $1,000 assessed valuation)
  • 2022 — $5,500,000 (Maximum of $2.50 per $1,000 assessed valuation)
  • 2023 — $5,500,000 (Maximum of $2.50 per $1,000 assessed valuation)
• The construction bond was passed at a rate of $3.56/$1,000.  The 2020 rate has been certified by Mason County to be $2.86/$1,000. This is 70 cents lower than projected.

REMEMBER TO VOTE: FEBRUARY 11, 2020

Official ballots will be mailed to voters on, or about, 
January 21st

DOWNLOAD YOUR LEVY FACT SHEET HERE

MÁS DATOS SOBRE EL IMPUESTO DE REEMPLAZO

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Purpose

The replacement levy provides funding for basic education services and day-to-day operating expenses that are not fully paid for by the state such as:

• Regular classroom and special program teachers and assistants
• Instructional technology
• Library services
• Nursing services
• Counseling services
• Swimming pool and auditorium operation & maintenance
• Classroom furniture, materials and equipment
• Support for students at risk
• Maintenance and repair of existing facilities
• Campus security - School Resource Officers
• Athletics and activities
• Transportation costs

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Programs & Services Paid for by the Replacement Levy

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Q & A

Is this an additional levy or a replacement levy?

This is a replacement levy and will replace the current levy which expires December 31, 2020.

When would the tax be collected?

Levy dollars would be collected in 2021, 2022, and 2023.

Do I qualify for levy exemptions?

Senior and disabled citizens may be eligible for an exemption from all or part of special levies. For applications and additional information, call the Mason County Assessor’s Office at 427-9670, ext.491, or visit www.co.mason.wa.us/assessor.

How can I register to vote?

Online:
Visit www.myvote.wa.gov
By Mail:
Visit www.masoncountyelections.us/ to print a mail-in registration form
In-Person:
Visit your local elections department

What are the deadlines?

Deadline to vote in person at the County Elections Office:
February 11 at 8 p.m.

Deadline for mail-in ballots:
Ballots must be postmarked no later than February 11; or returned to a designated ballot drop box by 8 p.m. on February 11.

For more information or questions, visit www.masoncountyelections.us or www.myvote.wa.gov.