November Elections and School Bonds

The November elections end on the fifth and the big question is what will happen with the school bond?

The school bond is being purposed to help raise money for the improvement of a number of schools in the Bellingham area and to help improve a number of different aspect with in the school system. 

Among the list the of things the $160 million bond promises to address is roof replacement on all schools in need, the rebuilding of the Sehome High School and the Happy Valley elementary school. For more information on the projects the bond will take on check out the Bellingham Public Schools Bond page.

With the reopening of Birchwood Elementary School in the fall of 2014 this bond will affect many issues with in the new school as well. Such as the safety and kitchen aspects of the bond, as well as the upgrade being made to environmental learning. 

The projected bond rates are estimated to increase by 49 cents per $1000 assessed value in 2014. By 2019 the tax rate is estimated to be 26 cents above the current tax rate, which would still be among the lowest in the county. For more information about the projected tax increase check out the Bond Information pdf. 

For more information about the other items on the ballot for this year's elections in Whatom County check out the Whatom County Official Local Voters' Pamphlet.