South Kitsap School District owns a 44-foot sailing sloop named the Lively. Only a handful of students have the privilege to train to be sailors on the Lively. No one else our community is permitted to set foot on her. She was purchased from UW in 2015 for $8,000. SKSD continues paying moorage fees, insurance, repairs, and maintenance for this hole in the water.
The district has diverted tens of thousands of our tax dollars to the Lively, yet only 8 or 9 NJROTC Cadets are given the opportunity to learn how to sail her. That represents less than one-third of one percent of the entire student body who is privileged to sail on the Lively. Is this inclusive, equitable and fair for the other students? The retired captain conducting training also is paid.
In 2020 a State of Washington Department of Commerce grant for $24,000 was awarded to the district. It was all spent on repairs and replacement of navigation equipment. The Commerce grant stipulates the district must retain the Lively until 2030. However, it might be possible to sell the sloop and use the proceeds to purchase a small fleet of sailing dinghies. So using the sale proceeds provided they are for a similar use is permissible.
SKSD could form a sailing clubs so other students could learn to sail. To date the district continues to refuse to consider this option. One of many examples of poor budget choices and funds management by the district. Until things change, I won’t be supporting any multi-million dollar bonds.
Please vote no on SKSD’s $271,000,000 bond.
Dave Kimble, Port Orchard
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