The latest unofficial district-wide primary election results show the proposition to lift Fort Vancouver Regional Library’s (FVRL) property tax levy will likely pass.
As of Thursday, Aug. 7, combined totals show Proposition No. 1 passing with 54,117 votes in favor (54.18%) and 45,762 votes against (45.82%). The measure is passing in Clark, Klickitat and Skamania counties, but is failing in Cowlitz County as of press time.
County results are as follows:
If approved, Proposition No. 1 would restore the library district’s regular property tax rate to $0.50 per $1,000 of assessed value starting in 2026. The measure is FVRL’s first levy lid lift request in 15 years.
Giltrop said the library district is funded almost entirely by property taxes, which make up 96% of its revenue. State law caps annual levy growth at 1%, meaning that over time, the rate drops even as property values increase. She noted the last levy lid lift was in 2010, and since then, inflation and population growth have squeezed the budget.
According to Giltrop, the district’s expenses have risen 4 to 5% annually while revenue typically grows smaller, creating a budget gap. This year, FVRL is operating with a $4.7 million deficit covered by reserves. Without the levy, that shortfall would rise to $7.6 million in 2026, exceeding available reserves and forcing cuts to staff, programs and operating hours.
Giltrop said the local community has shown a great commitment to its library district.
“It’s about trust in public institutions, confidence in shared spaces, and belief in the power of learning, access, and connection,” Giltrop said. “And over the past few months, people have shown up, asked questions, shared stories, and participated with intention, reflecting the value of our region that we place on shared resources.”
If the levy passes, Giltrop said the district will add 13% more open hours, launch the long-planned Washougal Community Library building project, purchase a Clark County bookmobile and invest in both digital and physical collections as well as technology upgrades.
“No matter the outcome, our commitment at FVRL libraries remains the same — to provide access to knowledge, learning, and opportunity for all,” she said.
A “no” vote would trigger a 30% reduction in open hours, eliminate 68 staff positions, cut over 1,500 programs and cancel plans for new facilities and outreach services.
The levy applies to all taxpayers in the 4,200-square-mile district, which serves more than 550,000 residents. For a home assessed at $400,000, the 2024 district average, the annual cost would be $200.
Learn more and see updated ballot counts at clark.wa.gov/elections.
