Letter About School Levy

Schoolboard chair June Arnold shares this letter…

Over the past week I was asked a question regarding the pending Levy which seemed important enough to share with the community:  there seems to be a belief the school district never hires local contractors for any of their construction projects, and therefore island residents should not support the Capital Projects & Technology Levy.

In fact, this is not true.  Over the past 4 years the school district has directed approximately $919,000 worth of its facility and technology projects to San Juan Island contractors and service providers.  Since the district is a taxpayer funded entity, there are very specific rules that must be followed for bidding and awarding projects.  That being said, there are also rules that allow it to direct projects to local providers if they can deliver the services needed at a reasonable price.  All projects must be published and let for bid.  But, if a competitive bid can be obtained locally and it causes undue expense to source outside of a local market, the district can advertise locally versus regionally.

Probably the most significant rule the district needs to follow is ensuring its providers have the proper insurance and bonding.  Large projects such as the remodel of the Elementary School and STEM Building and the re-roof of Turnbull Gym required commercial bonds.  Most of our local contractors do not carry commercial insurance and bonding due to the high expense.  But, the good news here is often the district can direct a general contractor to hire local subcontractors to support a project, and this has happened in multiple cases.

It’s important to keep in mind that our school district is very unique.  Nearly all the dollars spent to support the district whether they are for construction, services or instruction, stay right here on San Juan Island.  All of our teaching, administration and support staff live on this island.  We are essentially a closed loop economy.

All dollars spent by the district are public knowledge.  If you ever have a question – please do not hesitate to contact the school for information.

Sincerely,

June Arnold – School Board Chair

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