Smyrna to hold operational referendum March 15, $277 avg. tax increase

The Smyrna School District is having another referendum this year, following a failed one and successful one in 2024.

A referendum is a request of taxpayers to support school districts in operations and capital projects through a ballot initiative. It means increased taxes as well.

Smyrna’s referendum this year is operational, and is scheduled for Saturday, March 15th.

RELATED: Smyrna School District referendum fails

RELATED: 22 votes: Smyrna School District squeezes out successful referendum

At first glance it might be confusing how the district will hold its third referendum in the span of a year, but the two last year were capital referenda, which raises local money through tax increases to support projects like new buildings, upgraded parking lots, new science labs, better HVAC systems, and other physical updates.

Typically, the state matches funds at about a 65%/35% state/local split of the total project cost.

Even though the first try last year failed, districts are allowed a second attempt to have a successful referendum, which Smyrna narrowly pulled off in June, a few months after its first referendum.

This year’s referendum is operational, which is focused on raising taxes and in turn local revenue for aspects like educator salaries, educational programming, new curriculum, increased energy costs, and other additions to the day-to-day operations of the district.

The district states the referendum is needed to ensure its schools have the resources to meet the needs of its rapidly growing community, with enrollment increasing from 6,800 to an expected 7,800 students next year.

The referendum would raise $5.4 million in its first year, supporting programs and extracurricular activities for the new middle school, technology upgrades like replacing aging devices to keep a 1:1 technology ratio for students, address rising costs of utilities, fuel, and classroom materials due to inflation, and enhance school safety by hiring additional constables.

The funding will also support the new school currently under construction, ensuring it’s equipped with the technology, books, and qualified staff needed to provide a high-quality education.

“Teacher and staff salaries vary based on factors such as experience, education level, and additional credentials,” the district states. “However, when looking at starting salaries for new teachers, Smyrna School District ranks at the lower end in Kent County and remains in the bottom tier across most salary scales in New Castle County.”

If the referendum passes, teachers will receive a salary increase in both the first and second year, making the district’s pay more competitive with surrounding districts.

The current tax will increase on average by $277 a year.

Tax increase with successful Smyrna referendum

“The bedrock of any community lies in the upbringing of its children,” the district stated. “By investing in high-quality educational and extracurricular opportunities, we are fostering the growth of a generation that will contribute positively to various fields such as industry, social services, education, and beyond. Our Smyrna School District stands out as a community-based educational institution in the State of Delaware, with a rich legacy of alumni who are now educators shaping the future.”

The district said a successful referendum ensures that the community’s schools remain safe and secure, providing an environment where the next generation can flourish.

The state of Delaware offers a school tax credit to seniors over the age of 65.  This link provides information to take advantage of this program.

The state also offers a school property tax credit to disabled veterans. Click here for more information.

For polling locations and voter eligibility, click here.

Indian River is the second school district in Delaware to hold a referendum this academic years. It’s scheduled for Thursday, March 20.