RIVERSIDE, Wash. – School leaders in Riverside and Deer Park are examining the reasons behind the recent failure of capital levies. Community members and officials are working together to understand the root causes.
Economic concerns, rising property values and voter misunderstandings about school taxes have been identified as contributing factors. Leaders are taking steps to gather community feedback and plan for the future.
Despite the levy setbacks, Riverside Schools are moving forward. Administrators are applying for state and federal grants, utilizing savings from the regular budget and prioritizing improvements to heating, cooling and ventilation systems to ensure safe and functional facilities.
“I feel there’s a really big anti-tax sentiment right now, with just the inflation and how the cost of everything has gone up,” said a community member.
Both districts remain focused on student learning, maintaining community support and exploring options for future levies that balance school needs with taxpayers’ concerns.
