Manweller votes in favor of McCleary fix, local schools and taxpayers
The proposal to satisfy McCleary and restructure K-12 education funding has passed the House with the support of Rep. Matt Manweller.
Under House Bill 2242, state-wide property tax reforms would help provide $6 billion of new funding for Washington schools by 2021. According to Manweller, local taxpayers and schools will especially benefit from the proposed reforms.
When compared with current tax rates and K-12 funding, the 13th Legislative District would see the following changes under House Bill 2242:
Ellensburg
Beginning in 2019, property owners can expect a $50-$10 annual net decrease in property tax payments. Concurrently, the Ellensburg School District will receive an additional $1 million of funding in 2018, $3 million in 2019 and $3.6 million in 2020.
Moses Lake
Property owners can expect a $260 annual net decrease in property tax in 2019, $270 decrease in 2020 and $290 in 2021. The Moses Lake School District will see an additional $7 million of funding in 2018, $13 million in 2019 and $13.4 million in 2020.
Davenport
Beginning in 2019, property owners can expect a $160 net decrease in their annual property tax payment. The Davenport School District will receive an additional $1 million of funding between 2019 and 2021.
“This is a win-win solution,” said Manweller, R-Ellensburg. “Kids will have equal access to a quality education and property owners will finally see a more equitable tax rate.
Manweller also noted several highlights of House Bill 2242, including increased local control; increased funding for vulnerable students and students with special needs; increased funding for Career Technical Education (CTE); and, increased starting salaries for new teachers.
House Bill 2242, which is a crucial component of the 2017-19 operating budget, now awaits approval from the Senate and governor ahead of tonight's midnight deadline.
