This levy is less than 5% of the bond request in February 2023 ($12 million vs $253.2 million). Students in all eight school buildings will benefit from improved learning environments. The 31 repairs address leaking roofs, failing water heaters, broken heating systems, out-of-date alarm panels and much more.
After two failed bond requests in 2023, a citizens' committee researched the facility needs throughout the district. This investigation led to the identification of the projects included in this levy that reflect the most immediate needs to ensure our students have safe, warm, and dry learning environments.
Another important outcome of this committee was the commitment by the district to keep citizens involved in future capital projects. A citizens’ oversight committee will add a layer of transparency and ensure project completion and the stewardship of your tax dollars.
This levy will replace and upgrade many building systems that are past their functional lifespan. Kibler Elementary is 73 years old and urgently needs a new roof. JJ Smith, Westwood Elementary, and EHS also need roof replacements. New HVAC systems at Southwood Elementary and EHS are needed to replace broken, obsolete systems that cause classrooms to be too cold.
Forty-year-old hot water heaters at EMS need to be replaced with energy-efficient systems. TMMS and Southwood also require new water heaters. Lighting systems that no longer have replaceable parts need to be swapped out with safer and less expensive LED lighting at several schools.
The only way to address these issues is for the community to unite and Vote Yes for our kids! To read a complete list of projects, see the following websites: www.enumclaw.wednet.edu/page/critical-maintenance-levy-2025 and www.Yes4rKids.com
Submitted by: Andre Koch, www.yes4rkids.com
