The Cost to Homeowners
Voter approval of both the EP&O Levy and the Bond would result in an estimated local tax rate of $1.85 per $1,000 of assessed property value. This represents a $0.56 increase in local tax rates while allowing the district to make updates to aging facilities, leverage state funding, and preserve programs, services, and staff our community values.
Did you Know?
- Sequim has seen over $500 million in new construction since 2019 and new homes continue to be built. A larger tax base means tax decreases for the entire community.
- The district cannot collect more than the amount that voters approve. Property value increases do not generate more revenue for the district.
- For the owner of a $485,000 home, approval of the bond and levy would amount to a tax increase of about $23 per month.
Details on the EP&O Levy
Sustaining Programs, Services, and Staff our Community Values and the State Underfunds.
- Funds programs like athletics, music, and the Highly Capable academic program, plus student and classroom technology, and maintenance of our aging facilities.
- Sequim, like many other school districts across Washington, requires more staff to support student needs than the state provides funding for. Levy funds help alleviate challenges like large class sizes and support programs that foster student behavioral support and academic success.
- Following a combination of cost-cutting measures, long-term planning for the future, and residential growth increases, the replacement levy is structured to remain predictable while minimizing the burden on local taxpayers, at an estimated rate of $.94/$1,000 of assessed property value. Combined with the bond, the total overall tax rate would be $1.85 per $1,000 of assessed value.
Details on the Bond
Meeting urgent facilities needs and creating a resource for the whole community.
Sequim School District is asking voters to approve a bond measure for a total collection amount of $145,950,000 over 20 years.
- Replace Helen Haller Elementary School
- Renovate Sequim High School buildings A, B, C, D, and E to create a secure campus
- Add secure entrances at all schools
- Construction of a cafeteria for Greywolf Elementary, where students currently eat in their classrooms
- Modernization of multi-sport athletic facilities to meet current standards and community needs
- Improve the transportation center, bus loops, and parking/drop-off areas
This would mean an estimated bond tax rate of approximately $.91 per $1,000 of assessed property value. Voter approval of both the EP&O levy and the bond would result in an estimated local tax rate of $1.85 per $1,000 of assessed property value.
Community-Informed Recommendations
Proposed bond projects are community-informed by a Long-Range Facilities Planning Group (LRFPG) made up of community members, staff, school board representatives, and school families who met over six months to study areas of need across the district and offer cost-effective facilities solutions over the next 5-10 years.
Did you Know?
It’s been more than two decades since Sequim Schools have had any major capital improvements.
Sequim schools face many facility challenges, including deteriorating electrical, HVAC, and drainage systems. A successful bond will modernize our schools to meet 21st-century educational standards.
Safety remains a top community priority. The bond will fund secure single-entry points, safer traffic systems, and upgraded security protocols, with the goal of addressing parents' concerns.
Some senior citizens and disabled property owners may qualify for a tax exemption or deferral. For information, contact the Clallam County Assessor’s Office www.clallamcountywa.gov or 360-417-2400 for more information.