On Nov. 8 the Chimacum School District Board of Directors voted to approve the placement of a Capital Projects Levy on the Feb.13, 2024 Special Elections ballot. The capital levy is a significant move to address critical repairs and updates for schools, and continue to enhance student safety and our learning environments.

 The four-year levy resolution would authorize the district to collect $2.35 million per year and would support electrical, HVAC, and insulation system updates that promote efficiency. These funds would also be used to support student technology needs, and facility modernizations impacting learning environments, and safety and security. The proposed capital levy would be an increase from the previously approved $1.35 million per year collection amount approved in 2012 and renewed in 2018.

 “Our students, and creating the best possible environment for them, is at the heart of all we do in Chimacum,” said Dr. Scott Mauk, superintendent of Chimacum School District. “This proposed levy would directly support students by updating school facilities and systems to create learning environments consistent with 21st-century educational needs while creating energy cost-savings for the district.”

 If approved by voters in February, the Capital Projects Levy would fund the following projects:

•  HVAC system updates

•  Roof replacements across the district

• New playgrounds at Chimacum Creek Primary and Chimacum Elementary

•  Updated student technology such as laptops for students

 The proposed four-year capital levy rate is $0.66 per $1,000 in assessed value. For the average homeowner with a property valued at $600,000, the levy would have an annual cost of $396.

This is an increase in 2025 taxes from the current capital levy of $0.39/$1,000 or $234 a year.

 The current capital levy amount has remained static for more than a decade (since 2012), and with rising costs and inflation over the past decade, the proposed levy amount increase will allow the district to meet the growing needs of its students, and make meaningful maintenance and updates to Chimacum facilities.

Ballots will be mailed to voters the week of Jan. 22.

 “It is an important priority for Chimacum to maintain our facilities to the best of our ability, and be good stewards of taxpayer resources,” said Superintendent Mauk. “We ask our community to please remember to vote on Feb. 13.”

 For more information and details about the proposed Chimacum School District Capital Levy, please visit csd49.org/levy or contact the District Office at 360-302-5890.