Don't forget to VOTE!

10/20/2010

Dear PTSA Members,
There are three specific ballot measures that directly affect education in the upcoming election:

Seattle School District Supplemental Operations Levy: The Seattle Public School has a $48.2 M, 3-year operations levy on the Nov. 2 ballot. The funds will be used to partially replace reduced State funding and to improve education throughout the Seattle Public Schools. This levy allows the District to levy the following supplemental taxes on property to help meet the education needs of the 45, 507 students in the Seattle Public School system. The cost is 12 cents per $1000 of assessed taxable property.

• I-1098 would tax “adjusted gross income” above $200,000 (individuals) and $400,000 (joint-filers), reduce state property tax levies, reduce certain business and occupation taxes, and direct any increased revenues to education and health. (The Washington State PTA endorses this initiative)

• I-1107 would end sales tax on candy; end temporary sales tax on some bottled water; end temporary excise taxes on carbonated beverages, and reduce tax rates for certain food processors. (The Washington State PTA opposes this initiative)

• Referendum 52 would authorize bonds to finance construction and repair projects increasing energy effciency in public schools and higher education buildings, and continue the sales tax on bottled water otherwise expiring in 2013.

For more information on these items, visit the Secretary of State website: http://www.sos.wa.gov/
OR
Email Patti Spencer, [email protected] or call 252 0204
OR
Go the the Seattle Public School's Web site –including updated FAQs at http://www.seattleschools.org/area/levy-info/index.dxml -

Please take these items into consideration as you mail in your ballot by November 2nd. If you have any questions or concerns, please email me at [email protected]

Sincerely,
Jenice Lee
Legislative and Advocacy Chair