Initial results from the special election held on February 10, 2024, indicate that the Clarkston School District’s multi-year replacement educational programs and operations levy is likely to pass. The results, released by the Whitman County Auditor’s Office, show a positive reception for several tax measures across both Whitman and Asotin counties.
Sandy Jamison, the Whitman County Auditor, noted that the results are preliminary and are subject to change as additional ballots are counted. The final count is expected to be completed by February 20.
The Clarkston School District’s four-year levy is currently passing with approximately 58% support, totaling 2,154 votes in favor compared to 1,537 against in Asotin County. In Whitman County, the levy also shows strong support, with two approving votes to none opposing. This levy is anticipated to generate around $5,428,000 in 2027, increasing each year to $5,931,000 by 2030. The funds will support crucial aspects of the school, including security measures, nursing services, curriculum development, technology, extracurricular activities, and teacher compensation.
The LaCrosse School District is also experiencing positive results with its replacement capital levy aimed at modernizing school facilities. This three-year measure is passing with 68% approval, receiving 147 votes for and 69 against. It is projected to provide approximately $384,000 in 2027, increasing to $403,000 in 2029. The funding will address essential repairs such as exterior masonry and gym flooring at both the high school and elementary school, which was originally constructed in 1960. Homeowners within this district would pay $150 per $100,000 of assessed property value during this period.
Similarly, the St. John School District’s replacement educational programs and operations levy is currently passing with 66% of the vote, equating to 189 approving votes against 96 opposed. This levy will generate $510,000 in 2027 and $525,000 in 2028, funding athletics, extracurricular activities, and professional development that are not covered by state funding. Homeowners will see a charge of $165 per $100,000 of assessed home value during the two-year duration.
The district’s replacement capital levy is also showing positive results with a 69% approval rate, receiving 196 votes for and 89 against. This measure is set to provide $350,000 for the same two-year period, continuing to fund essential technology, HVAC systems, and other maintenance needs at the schools. Property owners would pay $115 in 2027 and $110 in 2028 for every $100,000 of assessed property value.
The Rosalia School District is reporting a 62% approval rate for its replacement educational programs and operations levy, with 162 votes in favor and 99 against. This measure aims to provide $555,000 in 2027 and $572,000 in 2028 to support teachers, athletics, and transportation. Homeowners in this district would pay $250 per $100,000 of assessed property value during the levy period. The district’s replacement capital levy for technology improvements is also passing with 63% approval, set to bring in $90,000 over two years.
In contrast, the Washtucna School District’s four-year replacement educational program and operation levy is failing, with two votes against and none in favor. This measure aimed to provide $150,000 from 2027 through 2030 for educational expenses. Homeowners in this district would have been required to pay $143 per $100,000 of assessed property value.
Overall, voter turnout for the February 10 special election was relatively moderate. In Whitman County, out of 7,615 registered voters, the turnout was 36%, with approximately 2,715 ballots cast. Asotin County reported 12,468 registered voters with a turnout of 30%, totaling around 3,694 ballots.
For more details, residents can contact the respective county auditor offices or visit their official websites.
