Letter to the editor: Secure our schools by voting for levy

Posted

As a long-time resident of the area and past member of the school board, I feel strongly that student safety is the top priority of the community. That is why I am voting to ensure students are safe at Hockinson Schools. At the April 22, 2025, Special Election, voters have the opportunity to approve a Safety & Security Capital Levy that will provide essential security upgrades to our schools without increasing tax rates.

This proposal is a fiscally responsible, that focuses solely on much-needed security measures that cannot be funded with the annual operating budget. At Hockinson Heights Elementary School, the levy will fund the installation of automatic lockdown capabilities, upgrades to security cameras and the public address system, and the addition and improvement of exterior fencing. In addition, all three schools in the district will receive upgraded emergency messaging systems to enhance communication during emergencies. These projects will be completed over six years and maintain the total tax rate at its current rate of $3.05 per $1,000 of assessed property value.

Hockinson School District has a well-documented record of protecting our community’s investment in its schools. For instance, it operates with one of the lowest cost-per-student budgets in Clark County while maintaining some of the highest test scores. Passing this

levy will ensure that our students are safe at school without raising the current total tax rate.

By voting yes on the Safety & Security Capital Levy, we can continue to protect our students, support our educators, and maintain Hockinson’s tradition of excellence without raising taxes. I encourage you to join me in voting YES for the Safety & Security Capital Levy and securing our schools.

Dave Olson



Vancouver

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