Ballots for the Centralia School District levy are due Tuesday. If yours is still sitting on the counter, please mark yes and get it submitted. If you’ve already voted, check in with neighbors, friends, and especially young adults who may need the reminder. Every ballot matters.
Why I’m voting yes:
- Our district leadership has earned it. The school board and administrative team have shown transparency, strong communication, vision and real fiscal stewardship. They’ve built trust — and they deserve our continued support.
- This is a replacement levy, not a new tax. It continues the current levy at a rate that remains lower than many neighboring districts. That’s responsible budgeting in action.
- It funds critical programs and needs. Athletics, school safety and academic supports like summer school are not extras — they’re core to student success and well‑being.
- It’s the best investment we can make. Strong schools strengthen our economy, our workforce, and the fabric of our community.
- We cannot afford to go backward. Centralia is on a brighter path — toward a more vibrant, flourishing community. A failed levy would set us back yet again, and I want more for all of us, kids included.
As of Feb. 7, only 22% of Lewis County voters had returned their ballots. Voting is a right, a privilege and a responsibility. Please take a moment today to mark your ballot yes and return it.
Kelly Smith Johnston
Centralia city councilor
