Levies

Levies and bonds are both voter-approved measures that can be used to pay for needs not covered by a school district's typical state funding.

• Levies can be used to enrich district programs and operations beyond state funding. This can include paying for staffing costs, equipment, and arts and athletics programs. Levies may also be used to pay for modifications and renovations to facilities and design and development of future school district construction projects. Levies must be approved by a simple majority of voters to be implemented for between 1 to 6 years.
• Bonds may pay for construction of new schools and district facilities. They must be approved by a super majority (60 percent) of voters and are implemented for between 20 to 30 years.

State lawmakers raised state property taxes and limited local levy authority in an effort to fully fund basic education. Despite that swap in funding support, state dollars only cover basic education. The coverage does not include athletics and creative and performing arts, and frequently falls short of funding special education services.

The current EP&O Levy approved by voters was designed for flexibility if state lawmakers adjust the local levy rate limit. The initial limit set by the state was $1.50 per $1,000 in assessed property value, but the Legislature raised it to $2.50 in 2020. The renewal levy maintains the current $2.50 rate.

RSD did receive funding from the Elementary and Secondary Schools Emergency Relief (ESSER) fund from the federal government through the 2020-21 school year. These dollars reimbursed districts for additional costs caused by the COVID-19 pandemic or to address impacts to students from the pandemic.

RSD has already spent these funds on personal protective equipment (PPE) for staff and students, physical and technical infrastructure to mitigate the risks of COVID-19 in schools and academic supports and tools to address learning loss.

Our Financial Services Department helps ensure every dollar spent in our schools is accounted for and aids district leaders in crafting sound fiscal policy. Learn more about what each levy funds.

Yes! There is assistance for low-income households. District residents should contact the Benton County Assessor’s Office about their eligibility for a property tax exemption or deferral.