Tuesday is deadline in Renton school-bond vote

Ballots must be postmarked no later than Tuesday for the special election in which Renton voters are being asked to approve $97 million in school construction bonds.

The proceeds will be used to build a middle school and make other improvements.

The measure barely missed getting the 60 percent majority it needed in the February election.

Citizens for Renton Schools committee members went door to door in the Newcastle, Bellevue, and North Renton areas of the school district last weekend to hand out informational brochures on the bond measure.

The district is looking for some much-needed support from the bond to alleviate overcrowding in the middle schools and make improvements to the pool building at Lindbergh High School, among other building improvements in the district.

The bond is expected to cost residents 18 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value, which equates to less than $46 per year for an average home valued at $257,000.

Recently candidates in the governor’s race touted the Renton School District for its exemplary programs when they rolled out their education plans for the state.

Democrat candidate Jay Inslee mentioned the district for its many innovative partnerships with local businesses, colleges, universities and communities.

Republican candidate Rob McKenna also praised the district for its graduation rate, which is currently at 94 percent.

For more information about voting by mail, watch a short video, visit the Elections website or call 206-296-VOTE (8683).

Contact Renton Reporter Staff writer Tracey Compton at tcompton@rentonreporter.com or 425-255-3484, ext. 5052.

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