WBCSD voters approve levy

PRIEST RIVER — West Bonner County voters showed strong support for West Bonner County School District’s maintenance and operations replacement levy Tuesday, approving the measure by an overwhelming two-thirds.

Out of 1,028 residents voting, 691 voting yes to 337 voting no.

The levy is designed to pay for unfunded state requirements, building maintenance, and school operations. If not passed, district officials said they would need to cut coach, copies, library materials professional services and more.

“We want to thank everyone for their efforts in providing accurate information to our voters,” said Superintendent Mike McGuire “Special thanks go to parents and the community for their support.”

The levy is for $650,000 through 2008-’09 and $675,000 through 2009-’10. The current 2006-08 levy costs homeowners 34.5 cents per $1,000. The estimated cost for the replacement levy is 35.8 cents per $1,000for 2008-09 and 36.1 cents for 2009-10 — about $2.24 per month.

Of the amount, $315,000 must be spent on facilities. The $157,500 per year of levy dollars are required or the facility funding will be made from discretionary funds or the district loses its funding from the Idaho State Lottery. The money must be spent despite declining student enrollment.

In the trustee election, incumbent Peggy Smith retained her seat with 117 votes to Brian McMackin’s 89 votes and challenger Wade Coldiron defeated incumbent Leonard Parenteau, 182 votes to 131.