T he estimated tax rate for the proposed March 10 school bond is 35 cents per $1000 of assessed property value, starting in 2010.

However, because previous bonds have recently been retired, school tax rates will actually decrease in 2009 by 54 cents per $1000. If this bond is approved by voters, the net cost to taxpayers will be 19 cents less per $1000 in 2010 than it was in 2008.

We’ve intentionally worked to keep costs low in this bond because of current economic uncertainties and near-misses on three previous bonds. By focusing first and foremost on the most critical, time-sensitive needs of our school buildings, the net cost to our community will actually decrease.

Some needs cannot wait. This bond will fund much-needed repairs and upgrades to school buildings and systems in nearly every school across the district. It will also purchase and site 12 additional modular classrooms to immediately relieve overcrowding at Mount Si High School. This bond is a first-step approach to the district’s facilities needs, while research and community discussion continues regarding our long-term facilities plan.

Please take time to learn the facts about this affordable bond that addresses our most pressing and critical needs. All Snoqualmie Valley residents will be mailed information about this important bond later this week.

I encourage you to visit the district Web site at www.svsd410.org for answers to commonly asked questions and more information.

Remember that the deadline to register to vote for the March 10 mail-in only election is Saturday, Feb. 7. Register online at www.vote.wa.gov or call the King County Elections Office at (206) 296-VOTE (8683), at least 30 days prior to election date.

This is the second in a series of Valley Record guest articles. We’ll continue to highlight important details about the upcoming school bond each week leading up to the March election. Thank you for your support of children and schools in this community.

• Joel Aune is superintendent of Snoqualmie Valley School District. Call him at (425) 831-8000.