SUSSEX COUNTY, Del. -- A current expense referendum in the Indian River School District failed to pass Thursday.
Voters defeated the referendum, which district officials said would increase property taxes for rising operating costs and the recruitment and retention of staff.
According to the district, 4,749 people voted in favor of the referendum, while 5,424 voted against it.
“We are obviously disappointed with the result of the referendum but understand that this is part of the school funding process in Delaware,” Superintendent Dr. Jay Owens said in a statement Thursday. “We certainly respect the opinions and wishes of our public and understand the uncertainty caused by the recent property reassessment and rising residential energy bills. However, without the passage of a current expense referendum, the district faces difficult decisions regarding staff and programs. As expenses continue to outpace revenue and cause further deficit spending, our administration and Board of Education will explore numerous options, including hosting another referendum in 2025. Despite this setback, we will continue to strive to provide our students with premier educational services.”