BELLINGHAM, Wash. — The Ferndale School District’s school programs and operations levy renewal request has failed.
Ferndale voters were asked to consider a levy costing them $2.50 per thousand of assessed property value for 2021 through 2024, replacing the current levy approved by voters in 2016.
Results on the Secretary of State website show about 57% of voters said no.
The District estimates the loss will mean a cut of about $7-million for the 2020-21 school year and a $13-million cut for the 2021-22 school year.
Superintendent Dr. Linda Quinn says they are disappointed for staff, students, volunteers and community, as this loss will mean significant changes in the educational experience they are able to offer students in Ferndale.
All other Whatcom County school levies are looking good.
Voters appear to have approved replacement levies for schools in the Bellingham, Meridian, Blaine, Lynden, Mount Baker, and Nooksack Valley School Districts.
A levy for maintenance and operations for Fire Protection District 8 is also passing.