Cape district holds first referendum community meeting

Cape Henlopen School District Superintendent Bob Fulton outlined the need for an operating expense tax increase at the first of three referendum community meetings Feb. 26 at Love Creek Elementary.

More students and less state funding are causing the need to generate local revenue, Fulton said. The district grows by 200 students a year, Fulton said, and studies show enrollment will continue to increase. Higher student numbers cause increased staffing, utility, curriculum and transportation costs, he said. 

The proposed 25-cent tax increase per $100 of assessed value would increase the average homeowner’s taxes by $64 a year and generate $3 million for the district.

The referendum is set for Tuesday, March 31. Polls will be open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Cape High, Mariner Middle and Rehoboth Elementary. Information on the referendum is at capehenlopenschools.com.

Future community meetings are set for 6 p.m., Monday, March 9, at Cape High and 6 p.m., Thursday, March 19, at H.O. Brittingham Elementary.

Community groups interested in requesting a presentation are asked to email Cape Communications Coordinator Stephanie DeMalto at stephanie.demalto@cape.k12.de.us.