Locals vote on current expense referendum

SUSSEX CO., Del. – There’s still a few hours left to vote on Indian River School District’s current expense referendum.

This, as people headed out to the polls Thursday to cast their ballot.

“I voted for the referendum,” said Ruby Spear. “I think over the years that it should be good for our county.”

“I think it’s a good thing to vote for,” said Elizabeth Godwin, “IRSD is one of the biggest districts in Delaware, the biggest one in Sussex County and we are the least funded.”

If approved, the referendum will result in a tax increase of $24.10 a month or $289.23 per year for the average district tax payer.

We’re told this is the first current expense referendum like this in 8 years.

“I’m retired with a budget, so I voted no for it,” said George Kilian. “I didn’t want to, but I had to do it, I’m on a fixed budget.”

“I think it’s a good investment in the education structure and I’m hoping that the increased funding will show some improvement in the scores and how we rank as a state,” said Maryann Clayton.

The referendum would cover operating costs for the school district, as well as help with the retention and recruitment of teachers.

“It’s really for our students,” said Dr. Jay Owens, Indian River School District Superintendent, “we want to make sure we are able to continue to operate our school system at a level that we know is needed for our students and a level that our students deserve.”

Dr. Owens says operating costs have increased 7.4% since the 2017 referendum and revenue brought in has not kept pace, increasing only 3.5%.

Owens said that divide is only expected to grow if the referendum fails.

“We’re prepared to look at cuts across the board, both programmatic first, but also with staffing, so unfortunately we need to ensure that we maintain our ability to staff classes adequately, but their indeed could be some impact if we are unable to pass the referendum,” he said.

Voters have until 8 p.m. Thursday night to cast their ballots.