West Valley School District cancels election

West Valley School District canceled its May election after the board decided not to request a $175,000 technology levy.

The unanimous decision was made at an April 1 special board meeting.

“The main reason is with coronavirus, schools being shut down and the financial hardship patrons of the school district might be facing, the board felt it was best to cancel the levy this year,” West Valley Superintendent Cal Ketchum said.

The levy, initially approved on March 9, would have gone toward the purchase and maintenance of devices, equipment and infrastructure in addition to ongoing subscription or licensing fees. If the district moved forward with the levy and it was approved voters, owners of homes valued at $200,000 could have expected annual taxes to increase by $41.09.

Despite the cancellation, the needs remain and a levy request may be considered in the future.

Currently, the district has earmarked approximately $60,000 for technology in the proposed 2020 general fund budget, which goes before the board for approval approved in August. The district also anticipates more than $70,000 in relief aid through the federal Cares Act, according to West Valley Business Manager Cindy Foley.

“We’re going to continue to look for options and opportunities to enhance education,” Ketchum said.

The trustee election is also canceled with one open position uncontested. Incumbent Tad Lisowski will be seated by acclamation.

In addition to West Valley, Kalispell Public Schools and Whitefish have canceled levy elections.

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or hmatheson@dailyinterlake.com.