I would like to address a couple of the claims being pushed by the pro levy people. TJ Kelly, from OSPI, pretty much debunked the absorption claims being put out by levy supporters here and statewide. It has happened only once and for several reasons other than levy failure. With 76 students and unsafe facilities, it was a good option for them. He doubted Yelm schools would ever get there with OSPI taking more responsibility for financial decisions before the district spiraled down the drain.
He also stated it was extremely unlikely the football program would be eliminated. He knew of no cases where this happened. Parents and boosters have always stepped up, and there is offsetting revenue from ticket sales to games, which I assume would help fund the program. I’ve heard this same threat for 50 years from schools trying to pass levies. Never once has it happened in any of the districts I know of.
The issue of kids not getting fed has nothing whatsoever to do with levy funding. That is a federal responsibility.
Lastly, the claim property values would decline. I don’t know if that’s a bad thing. Taxes would be less. Housing would become more affordable. I don’t believe it would be that big of a factor in real estate values. Lower taxes would make living here more desirable to many people.
