Spokane County School and Fire Taxes on the Ballot

Voters in Spokane County will decide on proposed property-tax levies from school and rural fire districts on the 3 de noviembre ballot. The measures would replace levies that are ending and help pay for public services, school programs, repairs and facility work. School districts say current funding does not cover some educational programs, extracurricular activities, staffing needs and infrastructure repairs. Rural fire districts provide medical and fire response outside the city department’s coverage area; many cited rising emergency calls and aging equipment.

Spokane Public Schools is seeking a levy that would raise up to $107 million in 2028, $111 million in 2029 and $115 million in 2030 for education programs and operating costs. The estimated rate is $2.50 per $1,000 of assessed property value, or $875 annually for a $350,000 home. East Valley proposes a two-year levy raising about $6.79 million in 2027 and $6.99 million in 2028, with an estimated annual cost of $346 for the average property owner. Its funds would support construction, modernization and remodeling, including parking, traffic, facilities and technology.

Central Valley is asking for a three-year levy totaling $48.9 million in 2028, $50.5 million in 2029 and $52.4 million in 2030 for educational programs and operations. West Valley has two proposals: one for education and operations, and another for facility upgrades. The second would raise $4.19 million in 2028 and $4.3 million in 2029, including work at Pasadena Park elementary school and Spokane Valley middle school. Riverside seeks up to $3.99 million in 2028, $4.1 million in 2029 and $4.2 million in 2030 for education and operations. Nine Mile Falls proposes separate levies for school operations and facility construction, modernization and remodeling.