The Clallam County Board of Commissioners voted Dec. 31 to adopt resolutions expressing support for two Sequim School District (District 323) ballot measures that will appear on a February special election ballot.

The measures: Proposition 1 is a replacement levy for education programs and operations; Proposition 2 is a bond measure to replace and upgrade deteriorating school facilities and improve safety. Staff noted the board previously received an in-depth presentation from the district and a PowerPoint packet is available with the agenda materials.

Why it matters: County commissioners framed the measures as local investments that support workforce development and student safety. Several public commenters urged commissioners to consider long-term state funding shortfalls and asked the board to be cautious about supporting measures without clearer returns on investment.

What the board did: After hearing public comment both for and against the measures, the board moved and seconded resolutions establishing a position in support of both Proposition 1 and Proposition 2. Commissioners spoke in favor of local investment in education while acknowledging broader concerns about state funding for schools.

Voices from the meeting: “A strong workforce comes from strong skills,” an unidentified commissioner said in urging support; other commenters asked the board to explain what the levies would pay for and to ensure transparency.

Next steps: The resolutions register the county’s official position; the measures will appear on the district’s February ballot and voters will decide whether to approve the levies and bond.