February Special Election Voters' Pamphlet

Benton County Official Local Voters’ Pamphlet

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February 8, 2022 Special Election

Registration Deadlines:

Ballot Drop Box Locations:

These deadlines apply to new registrations & voter updates!

Courthouse 620 Market St., Prosser

Mail: January 31

Benton City - City Hall 1009 Dale Ave., Benton City

Online: January 31 In-Person: February 8

Additional Resources: Local Election Information www.bentonelections.com (livechat feature available) County Information www.co.benton.wa.us State Election Information www.sos.wa.gov Campaign Finance Information www.pdc.wa.gov

West Richland Library (Drive up) 3803 W. Van Giesen St., West Richland West Richland - City Hall (Drive up) 3100 Belmont Blvd., West Richland Jefferson Park (Drive up) Symons St., Richland WSU Tri-Cities (Drive up) 2710 Crimson Way, Richland Benton County Voting Center (Drive up and Inside) 2610 N. Columbia Center Blvd., Richland Badger Mountain Community Park (Drive up) 350 Keene Rd., Richland

Ballots Mailed: January 19 Published by the Benton County Auditor

Benton County Campus (Drive up) 7122 W. Okanogan St., Kennewick

Published by the Benton County Auditor Kennewick - City Hall (Drive up) 210 W. 6th Ave., Kennewick

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Table of Contents

Letter to Voters............................................................................................................................Pg 3 Sample Ballot..........................................................................................................................Pg 4-6 General Voters’ Information....................................................................................................... Pg 7 Kennewick School District No. 17 Proposition No. 1............................................................. Pg 8-9 Kennewick School District No. 17 Proposition No. 2........................................................ Pg 10-11 Finley School District No. 53 Proposition No. 1.................................................................Pg 12-13 Prosser Consolidated School District No. 116-219 Proposition No. 1...............................Pg 14-15 Grandview School District No. 200 Proposition No. 1.......................................................Pg 16-17 Richland School District No. 400 Proposition No. 1...........................................................Pg 18-19 Richland School District No. 400 Proposition No. 2..........................................................Pg 20-21 Ballot Drop Box Locations.......................................................................................................Pg 22

3 Dear Benton County Voters, We are pleased to present the 2022 Benton County Local Voters’ Pamphlet for the February Special Election!

This spring you are going to have an opportunity to shape the future of our community by participating in the election process. You will be voting on measures that affect you, your family, and your neighborhood. When you vote, you have a direct say in our government at the local, state, and federal level.

This pamphlet is designed as a reference tool to help you make informed decisions. Inside you’ll find useful information about voter registration, deadlines for returning your ballot, and ballot drop box locations. This pamphlet includes ballot measures and pro and con committee statements for ballot measures.

Benton County will be sending every eligible household in the county a copy of this guide.

Please note that we do not make edits or corrections to any statements.

To be eligible to vote in a special election in a jurisdiction, you must be a registered voter and live in the participating district.

Your Signature Matters! Two of the most common reasons ballots are unable to be processed are that they are returned without a signature or with a signature that does not match what we have on file. DON’T LET THAT BE YOU. Please follow the tips found on page 6 regarding signing your ballot before it is returned.

We want to help every eligible person register to vote and every registered voter receive their ballot. The earlier the Elections Division is contacted by individuals who need a replacement ballot, want to register to vote and receive a ballot, or have related issues, the more options there will be available to provide assistance. You can call us at (509) 736-3085, send an email to elections@co.benton.wa.us, visit our website – www.bentonelections.com, or come in to one of our offices at: Benton County Voting Center, 2610 N. Columbia Center Blvd., Richland, WA Auditor’s Office, Benton County Courthouse, 620 Market St., Prosser, WA Both offices are open each weekday 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m., and on Election Day 8:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

The Benton County Elections Division is dedicated to assisting all voters, candidates, and jurisdictions in the election process, while ensuring elections are conducted securely, accurately, and transparently in compliance with the laws of the State of Washington. I hope you find this Voters’ Pamphlet useful, and of course, do not hesitate to contact my staff or me with any questions.

Amanda Hatfield Benton County Elections Manager

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Sample Ballot

Sample Ballot

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Sample Ballot

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Official Ballot Special Election Benton County, Washington February 8, 2022 PROPOSITION NO. 2 RICHLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 400 REPLACEMENT OF EXPIRING INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY IMPROVEMENTS LEVY The Board of Directors of Richland School District No. 400 adopted Resolution No. 938, concerning a proposition to finance instructional technology improvements. This proposition would authorize the District to levy the following excess taxes, replacing an expiring levy, on all taxable property within the District to pay costs to acquire, install, implement and modernize instructional technology equipment, infrastructure, systems and facilities, all to improve student learning: Collection Year 2023 2024 2025 2026

Estimated Levy Rate/ $1,000 Assessed Value $0.50 $0.50 $0.50 $0.50

Levy Amount $5,706,626 $5,991,957 $6,291,555 $6,606,133

all as provided in Resolution No. 938. Should this proposition be approved?

Levy Yes Levy No

Sample [0096.1] (CS 12)

Sample

General Voters’ Information To register to vote, you must be: • • • •

A citizen of the United States.

A legal resident of Washington State.

At least 18 years old by Election Day. Not under the authority of the Department of Corrections.

Three ways to register:

• Online - VoteWA.gov • By mail - Call us at (509) 736-3085 and we will mail you a form.

• In Person Benton County Courthouse, 620 Market St., Prosser Benton County Voting Center, 2610 N. Columbia Center Blvd., Richland

Ballot Return Deadline: Election Date

By Mail

Drop Box or In-Person

February 8, 2022

Postmarked by Feb. 8, 2022

By 8:00 p.m. Feb. 8, 2022 (Election Day)

Tips to ensure your ballot is counted!

1. If you register to vote online, your signature from the Department of Licensing becomes your voter registration signature. Take a moment and look at the signature on your Driver License or state ID. 2. The signature on your ballot does not need to be perfect or in cursive. It just needs to be consistent and match what we have on file.

3. If you are not sure what signature we have on file, simply fill out a paper registration form with your updated signature. You can print out a registration form by scanning this QR code.

Are you mailing your ballot?

Check the collection time!

To account for delivery standards and to allow for contingencies, the USPS recommends voters mail their ballot at least 1 week prior to Election Day. If you are unable to do so, we recommend that you use one of the conveniently located drop boxes.

Official Ballot Drop Boxes are open until 8:00 p.m. on February 8.

A list of Official Ballot Drop Box locations is on page 22.

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Kennewick School District No. 17 | Proposition No. 1

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Local Ballot Measure

Kennewick School District No.17 Proposition No. 1

Explanatory Statement PROPOSITION NO. 1 – REPLACEMENT EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS AND OPERATIONS LEVY

Passage of Proposition No. 1 would allow Kennewick School District to replace an existing educational programs and operations levy that will expire at the PROGRAMS AND OPERATIONS LEVY end of calendar year 2022. The taxes collected by this replacement levy will be used to pay expenses of The Board of Directors of Kennewick School District No. educational programs and operations that are not fully 17 adopted Resolution No. 2, 2021-2022, concerning funded by the State of Washington. These expenses a proposition to finance educational programs and include, but are not limited to: teachers and support staff; operations expenses. This proposition would authorize staff for maintenance, security, health and safety; special the District to meet the educational needs of its students education programs; transportation operations; staff by levying the following excess taxes, in place of an professional development; co-curricular and expiring levy, on all taxable property within the District, extra-curricular athletic activities; and other educational for educational programs and operations expenses not programs and operations expenses. ​Further information funded by the State of Washington: is available on the District’s website at https://www.ksd. org/.

REPLACEMENT EDUCATIONAL

Collection Year

Estimated Levy Rate/$1,000 Assessed Value

Levy Amount

2023

$1.75

$21,250,000

2024

$1.90

$25,350,000

2025

$2.10

$30,550,000

2026

$2.35

$37,250,000

all as provided in Resolution No. 2, 2021-2022 Should this proposition be approved?

LEVY YES LEVY NO

The proposed four-year replacement educational programs and operations tax levy would authorize collection of taxes to provide up to $21,250,000 in 2023, $25,350,000 in 2024, $30,550,000 in 2025, and $37,250,000 in 2026. The tax levy rate required to produce these levy amounts is estimated to be $1.75 in 2023, $1.90 in 2024, $2.10 in 2025, and $2.35 in 2026 (estimated levy rate per $1,000 of assessed value). The exact tax levy rates and amounts to be collected may be adjusted based upon the limitations imposed by State law at the time of the tax levy. Exemptions from taxes may be available to certain homeowners. To determine if you qualify, call the Benton County Assessor at 509.786.2046.

The Official Ballot Title was written by the Kennewick School District as required by law. The Benton County Auditor is not responsible for the content of arguments or statements.

Committee & Contact Information Pro Committee

Committee & Contact Information Con Committee

Pat Mastaler Jan Fraley Mary Lynn Merriman

No Committee Submitted

Committee Contact # (509) 308-4286

See next page for Kennewick School District No.17 | Proposition No. 1 Pro-Con Statement

Kennewick School District No. 17 | Proposition No. 1 Pro Committee Statement

Con Committee Statement

Our community has a long history of supporting the Kennewick School District and placing a high value on education. Let’s continue to provide the necessary educational and operational funds our kids need by voting yes for the Educational Program & Operations (EP&O) Levy.

No Statement Provided

This levy is not a new tax. It replaces the expiring levy that voters approved four years ago.

The EP&O Levy is used to support district costs not funded by the state and, when combined with Levy Equalization funding, accounts for over 10 percent of the district’s budget. These funds support teacher and support staff; Special Education; extracurricular activities including athletics, drama and music; security and safety; nurses and counselors; maintenance staff; transportation operations; and staff professional development.

Please vote yes to renew this crucial funding and continue providing the essential programs and tools that our children need to succeed.

Pro Committee Rebuttal No Rebuttal Submitted

Con Committee Rebuttal No Rebuttal Submitted

Local Voters’ Pamphlet

These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.

See next page for Kennewick School District No. 17 | Proposition No. 2

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Kennewick School District No. 17 | Proposition No. 2

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Local Ballot Measure

Kennewick School District No. 17 Proposition No. 2 REPLACEMENT LEVY FOR INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY IMPROVEMENTS The Board of Directors of Kennewick School District No. 17 adopted Resolution No. 3, 2021-2022, concerning a proposition for instructional technology improvements to enhance student learning. This proposition would authorize the District to levy the following excess taxes, in place of an expiring levy, on all taxable property within the District, to acquire and install instructional technology equipment and infrastructure, replace and upgrade computers, devices, hardware and software, and provide training and support: Collection Year

Estimated Levy Rate/$1,000 Assessed Value

Levy Amount

2023

$0.35

$4,250,000

2024

$0.34

$4,500,000

2025

$0.33

$4,750,000

2026

$0.32

$5,000,000

Explanatory Statement PROPOSITION NO. 2 – REPLACEMENT LEVY FOR INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY IMPROVEMENTS Passage of Proposition No. 2 would allow the Kennewick School District to replace an existing capital levy for supporting instructional technology that will expire at the end of calendar year 2022. The taxes collected by this replacement levy will be used to acquire and install instructional technology equipment and infrastructure; replace and upgrade computers, personal computing devices, hardware and software; provide staff support for training and implementation of such technology; and make other improvements and upgrades to the District’s instructional technology systems and facilities, all to improve student learning. Further information is available on the District’s website at https://www.ksd.org/.

The proposed four-year replacement capital levy for instructional technology improvements would authorize collection of taxes to provide $4,250,000 in 2023, $4,500,000 in 2024, $4,750,000 in 2025, and $5,000,000 in 2026. The tax levy rate required to produce these levy amounts is estimated to be $0.35 in 2023, $0.34 in 2024, $0.33 in 2025, and $0.32 in 2026 (estimated levy rate per $1,000 of assessed value). ​Exemptions from taxes may be available to certain homeowners. To determine if you qualify, call the Benton County Assessor at 509.786.2046.

all as provided in Resolution No. 3, 2021-2022 Should this proposition be approved?

LEVY YES LEVY NO The Official Ballot Title was written by the Kennewick School District as required by law. The Benton County Auditor is not responsible for the content of arguments or statements.

Committee & Contact Information Pro Committee

Committee & Contact Information Con Committee

Pat Mastaler Jan Fraley Mary Lynn Merriman

No Committee Information Submitted

Committee Contact # (509) 308-4286

See next page for Kennewick School District No.17 | Proposition No. 2 Pro-Con Statement

Kennewick School District No. 17 | Proposition No. 2 Pro Committee Statement

Con Committee Statement

Technology is a critical part of today’s educational program. Kennewick School District’s current Technology Levy, which was approved by voters four years ago, expires in 2022. The Technology Levy on the ballot is a replacement levy, not a new tax.

No Statement Provided

The Technology Levy is a fundamental part of instructional programs. It supports student and staff computer replacement and other instructional technology-related costs. It pays for student and school computers, classroom technology, digital resources, and adaptive technologies for students with special needs. It helps pay for staff who maintain equipment and professional development. Additionally, it supports our continued emphasis in teaching students about digital citizenship, online safety and responsibility.

A yes vote continues the tradition of great Kennewick schools in a world becoming increasingly digital. Please join us in voting yes.

Pro Committee Rebuttal No Rebuttal Submitted

Con Committee Rebuttal No Rebuttal Submitted

Local Voters’ Pamphlet

These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.

See next page for Finley School District No. 53 | Proposition No. 1

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Finley School District No. 53 | Proposition No. 1

Local Ballot Measure

Finley School District No. 53 Proposition No. 1

Explanatory Statement PROPOSITION NO. 1 – REPLACEMENT EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS AND OPERATION LEVY

Passage of Proposition No. 1 would allow Finley School District to replace an existing educational programs and operation levy that will expire at the end of calendar year PROGRAMS AND OPERATIONS LEVY 2022. The taxes collected by this replacement levy will be used to pay for expenses of educational programs The Board of Directors of Finley School District No. and operation that are not fully funded by the State of 53 adopted Resolution No. 2021-09, concerning a Washington. These expenses include but are not limited proposition to finance educational programs and to smaller class sizes; teaching and support staff; school operation expenses. This proposition would authorize the safety; instructional materials; special education; student District to levy the following excess taxes, in place of an activities; athletics; building maintenance and operations; expiring levy, on all taxable property within the District, and other educational programs and operation expenses. for the District’s educational programs and operation Taxes collected by the proposed replacement levy will expenses not funded by the State of Washington: provide approximately 7.75% of the District’s General Fund budget. Further information is available on the Collection Year Estimated Levy Levy Amount District’s website at https://www.finleysd.org/.

REPLACEMENT EDUCATIONAL

Rate/$1,000 Assessed Value

2023

$2.42

$1,485.000

2024

$2.46

$1,540,000

all as provided in Resolution No. 2021-09 Should this proposition be approved?

LEVY YES LEVY NO

The proposed two-year replacement levy would authorize collection of taxes to provide up to $1,485,000 in 2023 and $1,540,000 in 2024. The tax levy rate required to produce these levy amounts is estimated to be $2.42 in 2023 and $2.46 in 2024 (estimated levy rate per $1,000 of assessed value). The exact tax levy rates and amounts to be collected may be adjusted based upon the limitations imposed by State law at the time of the tax levy. Exemptions from taxes may be available to certain homeowners. To determine if you qualify, call the Benton County Assessor at 509.786.2046.

The Official Ballot Title was written by the Finley School District as required by law. The Benton County Auditor is not responsible for the content of arguments or statements.

Committee & Contact Information Pro Committee

Committee & Contact Information Con Committee

No Committee Information Submitted

No Committee Information Submitted

See next page for Finley School District No.53 | Proposition No. 1 Pro-Con Statement

Finley School District No. 53 | Proposition No. 1 Pro Committee Statement

Con Committee Statement

No Statement Provided

No Statement Provided

Pro Committee Rebuttal No Rebuttal Submitted

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Con Committee Rebuttal No Rebuttal Submitted

See next page for Prosser Consolidated School District No. 116-219 | Proposition No. 1

14 Prosser Consolidated School District No. 116-219 | Proposition No. 1 Local Ballot Measure

Prosser Consolidated School District No. 116-219 Proposition No. 1

Explanatory Statement

Passage of Proposition No. 1 would allow Prosser Consolidated School District to replace an existing educational programs and operation levy that will expire at the end of calendar year 2022. The taxes collected by this replacement levy will be used to pay for expenses of educational programs and operation that are not fully REPLACEMENT OF EXPIRING funded by the State of Washington. These expenses MAINTENANCE, OPERATION AND include, but are not limited to: technology; athletics; smaller class sizes; school safety; instructional materials; EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS LEVY special education; maintenance; student activities; teaching and support staff and other educational The Board of Directors of Prosser Consolidated School programs and operation expenses. Taxes collected by District No. 116-219 adopted Resolution No. 06-21, the proposed replacement levy will provide approximately concerning a proposition to finance educational programs 9.2% of the District’s General Fund budget. Further and operation expenses. This proposition would authorize information is available on the District’s website at http:// the District to levy the following excess taxes, replacing prosserschools.org/. an expiring levy, on all taxable property within the District, for educational programs and operation expenses not funded by the State: The proposed three-year replacement educational programs and operation tax levy would authorize Collection Year Estimated Levy Levy Amount collection of taxes to provide up to $3,782,032 in 2023, Rate/$1,000 $3,895,493 in 2024, and $4,012,358 in 2025. The tax Assessed Value levy rate required to produce these levy amounts is 2023 $2.13 $3,782,032 estimated to be $2.13 per $1,000 of assessed value. The 2024 $2.13 $3,895,493 exact tax levy rates and amounts to be collected may be adjusted based upon the limitations imposed by State law 2025 $2.13 $4,012,358 at the time of the tax levy. Exemptions from taxes may be available to certain homeowners. To determine if you all as provided in Resolution No. 06-21 and subject to qualify, call the Benton County Assessor at 509.786.2046 legal limits on levy rates and amounts at the time of levy. or Klickitat County Assessor at 509.773-3715.

Should this proposition be approved?

LEVY YES LEVY NO The Official Ballot Title was written by the Prosser School District as required by law. The Benton County Auditor is not responsible for the content of arguments or statements.

Committee & Contact Information Pro Committee No Committee Information Submitted

Committee & Contact Information Con Committee Jeff Heckathorn Committee Contact - schooldataproj@gmail.com

See next page for Prosser School District No. 116-219 | Proposition No. 1 Pro-Con Statement

Prosser Consolidated School District No. 116-219 | Proposition No. 1 Pro Committee Statement

Con Committee Statement

No Statement Submitted

No Statement Submitted

Pro Committee Rebuttal No Rebuttal Submitted

Con Committee Rebuttal No Rebuttal Submitted

See next page for Grandview School District No. 200 | Proposition No. 1

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Grandview School District No. 200 | Proposition No. 1

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Local Ballot Measure

Grandview School District No. 200 Proposition No. 1 REPLACEMENT EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS AND OPERATIONS LEVY The Board of Directors of Grandview School District No. 200 adopted Resolution No. 4 concerning educational funding. This proposition authorizes the District to levy the following excess taxes, to replace an expiring levy, on all taxable property within the District, to support the District’s educational programs and operations not funded or fully funded by the state:

Collection Year

Estimated Levy Rate/$1,000 Assessed Value

Levy Amount

2023

$1.73

$2,000,000

2024

$1.81

$2,150,000

2025

$1.89

$2,300,000

2026

$1.96

$2,450,000

Explanatory Statement Passage of Proposition No. 1 would allow the levy of: $2,000,000 in property taxes within Grandview School District No. 200 for collection in 2023, $2,150,000 in 2024, $2,300,000 in 2025, and $2,450,000 in 2026, to replace an expiring levy. In accordance with Resolution No. 4 approving this proposition, these taxes would be deposited in the District’s General Fund to pay part of the general expenses of operating the District that are not funded by the State. General expenses of the District include teaching, school supplies, athletics, buildings and transportation. If authorized by voters, estimated levy rates per $1,000 of assessed value would be $1.73 (2023 collection); $1.81 (2024 collection); $1.89 (2025 collection); and $1.96 (2026 collection). The exact levy rate shall be adjusted based upon the actual assessed value of the property within the District at the time of the levy.

all as provided in the Resolution.

Should this proposition be approved?

YES NO The Official Ballot Title was written by the Grandview School District as required by law. The Benton County Auditor is not responsible for the content of arguments or statements.

Committee & Contact Information Pro Committee

Committee & Contact Information Con Committee

Tim Grow

No Committee Information Submitted

Committee Contact (509) 882-5750

Local Voters’ Pamphlet

These statements are printed exactly as submitted with no spelling, grammatical or other corrections made. The candidate or campaign committee is responsible for content.

See next page for Grandview School District No. 200 | Proposition No. 1 Pro-Con Statement

Grandview School District No. 200 | Proposition No. 1 Pro Committee Statement

Con Committee Statement

Education is the key which unlocks the doors of opportunity for individuals and society. Levy funds enhance educational opportunities and extracurricular activities such as the arts, music, gifted programs, technology, special education, nurses and athletics.

Levy supports maintaining facilities and grounds for student and community use.

No Statement Submitted

Levy dollars are locally controlled and the state provides an additional two dollars for every dollar raised.

As a former 20 year board member, I have witnessed the effectiveness and necessity of levy dollars. Invest in the futures of our children and grandchildren, the leaders of tomorrow. Continue the Grandview legacy Vote Yes!

Pro Committee Rebuttal No Rebuttal Submitted

Con Committee Rebuttal No Rebuttal Submitted

See next page for Richland School District No. 400 | Proposition No. 1

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Richland School District No. 400 | Proposition No. 1

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Local Ballot Measure

Richland School District No. 400 Proposition No. 1 REPLACEMENT OF EXPIRING EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS AND OPERATION LEVY The Board of Directors of Richland School District No. 400 adopted Resolution No. 937, concerning a proposition to finance educational programs and operation expenses. This proposition would authorize the District to levy the following excess taxes, replacing an expiring levy, on all taxable property within the District, for educational programs and operation expenses not funded by the State: Collection Year

Estimated Levy Rate/$1,000 Assessed Value

Levy Amount

2023

$2.50

$28,533,131

2024

$2.50

$29,959,787

2025

$2.50

$31,457,777

2026

$2.50

$33,030,666

all as provided in Resolution No. 937 and subject to legal limits on levy rates and amounts at the time of levy.

Should this proposition be approved?

LEVY YES

Explanatory Statement PROPOSITION NO. 1 – REPLACEMENT OF EXPIRING EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS AND OPERATION LEVY Passage of Proposition No. 1 would allow Richland School District to replace an existing educational programs and operation levy that will expire at the end of calendar year 2022. The taxes collected by this replacement levy will be used to pay for expenses of educational programs and operation that are not fully funded by the State of Washington. These expenses include, but are not limited to: smaller class sizes; teaching and support staff; school safety; instructional materials; special education; student activities; athletics; building maintenance and operations; and other educational programs andoperation expenses. Taxes collected by the proposed replacement levy will provide approximately 13% of the District’s General Fund budget.

Further information is available on the District’s website at https://www.rsd.edu/.

The proposed four-year replacement educational programs and operation tax levy would authorize collection of taxes to provide up to $28,533,131 in 2023, $29,2959,787 in 2024, $31,457,777 in 2025, and $33,030,666 in 2026. The tax levy rate required to produce these levy amounts is estimated to be $2.50 per $1,000 of assessed value. The exact tax levy rates and amounts to be collected may be adjusted based upon the limitations imposed by State law at the time of the tax levy. Exemptions from taxes may be available to certain homeowners. To determine if you qualify, call the Benton County Assessor at 509.786.2046.

LEVY NO The Official Ballot Title was written by the Richland School District as required by law. The Benton County Auditor is not responsible for the content of arguments or statements.

Committee & Contact Information Pro Committee

Committee & Contact Information Con Committee

Danica Garcia

Dallas Burt

Committee Contact (509) 593-8601

Committee Contact (509) 380-4263

See next page for Richland School District No. 400 | Proposition No. 1 Pro-Con Statement

Richland School District No. 400 | Proposition No. 1 Pro Committee Statement

The school educational programs and operations (EP&O) levy provides crucial funding for the Richland School District(RSD) budget. Current funds collected from state tax dollars do not meet the operating needs of RSD. State tax dollars only provide enough funding for two school nurses to serve all 19 Richland School District schools, and for only half the staff needed to serve the district’s hundreds of students with disabilities. Levy dollars close this gap to provide the good schools students deserve.

RSD’s EP&O levy fills the gap by providing $1 for every $6 of the district’s budget. This funding supports numerous needs and district inciates including: Mental Health Services, Athletics, Staff training and professional development, Additional course offerings (i.e. Advanced Placement (AP), Special Education), Staff (i.e. nurses, paraprofessionals, school resource officers) above state minimums, Art, music and physical education programs, Curriculum and instructional materials, and Extra math and reading help.

No New Taxes The levy is a replacement levy for the current expiring levy.

The current levy is already assessed at $2.50/$1000 of property value; the same rate is requested under this levy.

Vote Yes At a time when our students need our support more than ever these levy dollars provide vital support to make sure all our students have the support they need. Vote yes to support our students and support our schools.

Email: richlandcitizens4goodschools@gmail.com Website: https://www.facebook.com/ RichlandCitizensForGoodSchools

Pro Committee Rebuttal

Option 1 A no vote hurts students by denying vital funding for programs including special education, PE, Art/Music/ Drama. The state and federal government continue to pass unfunded mandates; levy dollars are vital to close the funding gap. For nearly a decade, RSD’s audits have had ZERO findings from the Washington State Auditor.

Recent budget increases result from the McCleary Decision, which still doesn’t fund basic education. Vote YES to give RSD students a good education.

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Con Committee Statement

A no vote on the levy will send a message to the Richland School District that we are not happy with its current status.

We have decreased test scores, increased suicides, and our kids are still not back to school in a normal learning environment. The Federal Government has been giving school districts plenty of extra money, so they can afford to go without the levy. Ignore the threats, Special Education will still be funded per Federal law. A levy should be withheld until RSD makes the necessary changes to improve accountability and responsibility. The voters need to hold the RSD accountable.

Facts The 2015-2016 budgeted expenditures were $140 million, enrollment the same year was 13,344. The 2020-2021 budgeted expenditures were $193 million, the enrollment at the beginning of this school year was 13,671. In 2019 only 43.8% of students met the State Science Standard, with PNNL and the Hanford Nuclear Site in our backyard.

The RSD has no fiscal proficiency In a Curriculum Audit performed in 2018, auditors reported the following: “Financial decision making and budget development processes lack cost-benefit analyses and are not adequately linked to curricular goals and priorities… no formal, routine effort has been made to link student achievement or program performance feedback to budgetary decisions. Additionally, participation in the budget planning processes at the district level lacks full inclusion of stakeholders and is inconsistently utilized at the building level.” Has the RSD taken any corrective action?

Con Committee Rebuttal

In 2020, we were taxed approximately $12 per $1000; $5 of $12 went to RSD (excluding current levy). RSD wants to extend the levy without demonstrating fiscal constraint or what they’re doing to arrest declining performance. State testing confirmed the decline even though staff and administration are paid above state average (~ 40%). RSD continues funding bad behavior without providing corrective actions. Taxpayers shouldn’t be responsible to remedy poor execution when RSD takes no accountability.

See next page for Richland School District No. 400 | Proposition No. 2

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Richland School District No. 400 | Proposition No. 2

Local Ballot Measure

Richland School District No. 400 Proposition No. 2 REPLACEMENT OF EXPIRING INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY IMPROVEMENTS LEVY The Board of Directors of Richland School District No. 400 adopted Resolution No. 938, concerning a proposition to finance instructional technology improvements. This proposition would authorize the District to levy the following excess taxes, replacing an expiring levy, on all taxable property within the District to pay costs to acquire, install, implement and modernize instructional technology equipment, infrastructure, systems and facilities, all to improve student learning: Collection Year

Estimated Levy Rate/$1,000 Assessed Value

Levy Amount

2023

$0.50

$5,706,626

2024

$0.50

$5,991,957

2025

$0.50

$6,291,555

2026

$0.50

$6,606,133

Explanatory Statement Passage of Proposition No. 2 would allow the Richland School District to replace an existing capital levy for instructional technology improvements that will expire at the end of calendar year 2022. The taxes collected by this replacement levy will be used to acquire, install, implement and modernize instructional technology equipment, infrastructure, systems and facilities, and make other improvements and upgrades to the District’s instructional technology systems and facilities, all to improve student learning. Further information is available on the District’s website at https://www.rsd.edu/.

The proposed four-year replacement capital levy for instructional technology improvements would authorize collection of taxes to provide $5,706,626 in 2023, $5,991,957 in 2024, $6,291,555 in 2025, and $6,606,133 in 2026. The tax levy rate required to produce these levy amounts is estimated to be $0.50 per $1,000 of assessed value. Exemptions from taxes may be available to certain homeowners. To determine if you qualify, call the Benton County Assessor at 509.786.2046.

all as provided in Resolution No. 938.

Should this proposition be approved?

LEVY YES LEVY NO The Official Ballot Title was written by the Richland School District as required by law. The Benton County Auditor is not responsible for the content of arguments or statements.

Committee & Contact Information Pro Committee

Committee & Contact Information Con Committee

Danica Garcia

Dallas Burt

Committee Contact (509) 593-8601

Committee Contact (509) 380-4263

See next page for Richland School District No. 400 | Proposition No. 2 Pro-Con Statement

Richland School District No. 400 | Proposition No. 2

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Pro Committee Statement

Con Committee Statement

The school technology levy provides crucial funding for the Richland School District(RSD) budget for technology and technology infrastructure. With the current levy expiring in 2022, RSD’s Capital Projects fund will not have sufficient funds to maintain and upgrade technology throughout the district; Levy dollars are necessary to fill the gap.

A no vote on the levy will send a message to the Richland School District that we are not happy with its current status.

We have decreased test scores, increased suicides, and our kids are still not back to school in a normal learning environment. The Federal Government has been giving school districts plenty of extra money, so they can afford to go without the levy. Ignore the threats, Special Education will still be funded per Federal law. A levy should be withheld until RSD makes the necessary changes to improve accountability and responsibility. The voters need to hold the RSD accountable.

RSD’s technology levy fills the gap to ensure that students and schools are equipped with the necessary technology for 21st century learning. This funding supports numerous needs and district incidentals including: 1:1 Technology Initiative (one digital device for each student in Grades 2-12), staff training and professional development, replacement and addition of student and staff devices, enhanced IT support, and improved technology infrastructure.

No New Taxes The levy is a replacement levy for the current expiring levy.

The current levy is already assessed at $.50/$1000 of property value; the same rate is requested for this levy.

Vote Yes At a time when students need our support more than ever, levy dollars provide vital support to make sure all students have the technology they need. Vote yes to support our students and support our schools.

Email: richlandcitizens4goodschools@gmail.com Website: https://www.facebook.com/ RichlandCitizensForGoodSchools

Pro Committee Rebuttal

A no vote hurts students by removing vital funding for technology. The technology levy supports one computer for each student, staff computers, IT support, and technology infrastructure. This infrastructure enables student success and maintains the Pacific Crest Online Academy. RSD has had no fiscal audit findings in the last 20 years. Without the levy, students lose vital funding for necessary technology for 21st century learning and skills.

Vote YES to support RSD students.

Facts The 2015-2016 budgeted expenditures were $140 million, enrollment the same year was 13,344. The 2020-2021 budgeted expenditures were $193 million, the enrollment at the beginning of this school year was 13,671. In 2019 only 43.8% of students met the State Science Standard, with PNNL and the Hanford Nuclear Site in our backyard.

The RSD has no fiscal proficiency In a Curriculum Audit performed in 2018, auditors reported the following: “Financial decision making and budget development processes lack cost-benefit analyses and are not adequately linked to curricular goals and priorities… no formal, routine effort has been made to link student achievement or program performance feedback to budgetary decisions. Additionally, participation in the budget planning processes at the district level lacks full inclusion of stakeholders and is inconsistently utilized at the building level.” Has the RSD taken any corrective action?

Con Committee Rebuttal

RSD’s budget has swelled to $200 million, with stable enrollment; yet, student performance declined. The audit showed budget development was not aligned with curricular goals and there was no assessment of program effectiveness or tie back to student achievement.

Increased screentime has not resulted in improved student performance. We are pricing many out of the community while letting RSD recklessly spend without accountability. Local taxpayers are facing another property tax increase. Don’t reward poor leadership.

Ballot Drop Box Locations

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Ballot Drop Box Locations

Ballot drop boxes are a convenient way for you to return your ballot on or before Election Day. These secure ballot drop boxes can be found at 10 locations throughout Benton County. Boxes are open 20 days prior to Election Day and remain open until 8:00 PM on Election Day. Ballot drop boxes do not require any postage and guarantee your ballot will be received by the Auditor's Office.

Kennewick

Richland

Kennewick City Hall, 210 W. 6th Ave. (Drive Up) WSU Tri-Cities, 2710 Crimson Way (Drive Up) Benton County Campus, 7122 W. Okanogan Pl. (Drive Up) Jefferson Park, Symons St. (Drive Up) Badger Mountain Community Park, 350 Keene Rd. (Drive Up) Benton County Voting Center, 2610 N. Columbia Blvd. (Drive Up & Inside)

West Richland

Benton City

Prosser

City Hall, 3100 Belmont Blvd.(Drive Up) Library, 3803 W. Van Giesen St. (Drive Up)

City Hall, 1009 Dale Ave.

Courthouse, 620 Market St.

n

WSU Tri-Cities 2710 Crimson Way, Richland

West Richland Library 3803 W Van Giesen St, West Richland

n

n

Jefferson Park Symons Street, Richland

West Richland Shops 3100 Belmont Blvd, West Richland

Kennewick, Richland, West Richland

n

n City City Hall Dale Ave, n City

Badger Mountain Community Park Keene Rd, Richland

n

Benton County Voting Center 2610 N Columbia Blvd, Richland

n n

Benton County Admin Building 7122 W. Okanogan Pl. Ste E, Kennewick

Kennewick City Hall 210 W 6th Ave, Kennewick

n

Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P, NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, (c) OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Benton City City Hall 1009 Dale Ave, Benton City

n Prosser

Prosser Courthouse 620 Market St, Prosser

n Benton City

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BENTON COUNTY AUDITOR ELECTIONS DIVISION PO BOX 1000 Richland, WA 99352