We have an opportunity to vote at each election, and by doing so participate in one of our most fundamental rights as Americans which is a cornerstone of our society. The team over at Ada County Elections has put in the hours to make voting seamless, safe, and secure. I want to thank Ada County Clerk Trent Tripple and all of the employees and volunteers for making this happen.

Absentee voting is taking place and early voting continues this week at Meridian City Hall for the May 21 Primary Election, and it has been great to see so many people utilizing this service. This year’s ballot includes a West Ada School District Replacement Levy, State Legislators and District Representatives. There is a lot to consider, and I encourage each voter to view their ballot in advance HERE to do your own research on candidates and measures. There is nothing more powerful than a well-educated voter! 

An important item on the ballot is the supplemental levy being proposed by the West Ada School District (WASD) for the next two years. This levy would replace and continue an existing levy, which is set to expire on June 30, 2024. According to the WASD, these dollars will go directly to the salaries and benefits of 152 teachers ($12,983,251) and for contract services for 19 School Resource Officers ($867,404). If approved, the tax per 100,000 of taxable assessed value is expected to decrease by $.30 over the existing expiring levy. To learn more about the levy, you can visit the West Ada website, HERE. This levy requires a simple majority of 50%, plus one vote to pass. Ultimately, the choice is ours.

The levy is not to be confused with the new legislation passed this year that will provide funds from the State of Idaho to WASD that will be used for facilities. Monies from the supplemental levy can only be used for personnel, and funding from the bill passed this year by the legislature can only be used for facilities.

In addition to knowing what is on your ballot, if you’re not sure where to vote take a moment to find your polling location. Polling locations are determined by your address. For those who may have opted to vote absentee, we have a Ballot Drop Box here at City Hall if you still need to get it turned in.

For those who know, despite having an early voting location in City Hall that I pass several times a day, I prefer to cast my ballot on election day at my polling location. I like to try and be one of the first people at the poll and help certify the ballot boxes if given the opportunity. If you are like me, I hope you show up on Tuesday, May 21 to cast your vote after doing your research on the candidates and issue at hand. Let’s vote on the future of Meridian and the State of Idaho!