Greater Vancouver Chamber Board of Directors Endorses School Replacement Levies and Bonds on February Ballot

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS ENDORSES SCHOOL REPLACEMENT LEVIES AND BONDS ON FEBRUARY BALLOT 

Investing in Education to Build a Stronger Workforce and Thriving Community 

Vancouver, Wash. – The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) Board of Directors has unanimously endorsed the school replacement levies and bonds proposed by Clark County’s seven school districts—Battle Ground, Evergreen, Hockinson, La Center, Mount Pleasant, Ridgefield, and Vancouver. The Chamber urges its members and all residents to vote YES for our schools in the February 11, 2025, special election, highlighting the essential role these measures play in building a stronger workforce and supporting community success. 

As workforce development continues to be a cornerstone of the GVC’s mission, the Chamber emphasizes that strong public education is fundamental to preparing a skilled and adaptable workforce. Investments in schools directly impact the region’s economic vitality, business growth, and ability to compete in a dynamic global marketplace. 

“A strong education system is critical for maintaining a thriving and sustainable workforce,” said John McDonagh, President & CEO of the Greater Vancouver Chamber. “These proposed bonds and levies will address crucial needs in our schools, ensuring students have the tools and opportunities to succeed while strengthening our local economy.” 

Why These Measures Matter 

The replacement levies and bonds aim to address vital needs in Clark County’s schools, including: 

• Enhanced Campus Security: Investments in lockdown systems, School Resource Officers, and advanced emergency notification technologies. 

• Special Education Support: Funding to close the gaps left by state education budgets for special education services. 

• Facilities Maintenance: Proactive repairs and upgrades, such as roof and HVAC replacements, to ensure safe and effective learning environments. 

• Extracurricular Programs: Support for arts, drama, and athletics, as well as field improvements like synthetic turf for year-round use. 

If approved, the levies will fund essential programs and services from 2026 to 2029, benefiting every school in the districts and addressing the significant funding shortfalls left by the state’s declining investment in education. 

Bridging the Funding Gap 

Despite the state’s constitutional responsibility to fund basic education, the percentage of the state budget allocated to education has dropped significantly—from 52.4% in 2019 to just 43.1% in 2024.  This decline underscores the critical importance of local levies and bonds in providing the resources necessary for students and schools to thrive. 

A Call to Action 

The GVC urges the community to “Say Yes to Our Schools” by supporting these measures. “By approving these levies and bonds, we’re not just investing in education—we’re investing in our community’s future, ensuring students are prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s workforce,” McDonagh added. 

Ballots for the February 11, 2025, special election will be mailed on January 24 and should arrive in mailboxes by January 30. These replacement levies are not new taxes; they renew expiring levies and will provide critical funding to sustain school programs, services, and infrastructure for the next four years. 

For more information on the levies and bonds, visit the Clark County Elections website or contact your local school district.