The Herald’s position on the huge bond for Richland’s 3rd high school & more | Editorial
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Tri-City Herald 2024 election recommendations
The Tri-City Herald Editorial Board met with more than two dozen candidates for local and state office. Here are their endorsements.
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The Richland School District’s $314 million bond measure is part of a comprehensive plan to address overcrowding, modernize facilities and prepare for future growth.
This three-pronged strategy includes building a new high school in West Richland, making critical repairs to aging facilities and acquiring land for future expansion. It’s a forward-thinking approach that deserves voters’ support.
The need for the bond is clear. Due to overcrowding, classes are currently being held in repurposed spaces like an auditorium foyer and old boiler room.
The district hasn’t built a new high school since Hanford High School 50 years ago, despite significant population growth.
Meanwhile, existing facilities are showing their age. Repairs and upgrades are needed at many schools. The bond leverages an additional $43 million in state matching funds, maximizing the impact of our local investment.
The district did not rush this plan. It spent years studying options, holding public discussions and listening to what the community wants.
While the financial impact is a concern for many, this bond will only return taxes back to 2019-20 levels. COVID delayed a more-timely request.
Richland residents have a great deal of pride in their community, as they should. They can build on that by passing Prop. 1. Quality schools are at the heart of a successful community.
This story was originally published October 25, 2024 at 5:00 AM.
BEHIND THE STORY
MOREBehind Our Election Recommendations
Who decides the recommendations?
The Tri-City Herald editorial board is comprised of experienced opinion journalists and community members, and is separate from The Herald’s newsroom. Conversations are on the record.
What does the recommendation process entail?
Whenever possible, The Herald editorial board meets with opposing candidates at the same time. The questions are largely focused on a candidate’s qualifications and goals. The editorial board then discusses the candidates in each race and decides who to recommend. Board members seek to reach a consensus on our recommendations, but not every decision is unanimous.
Is the editorial board partisan?
No. In making recommendations, members of the editorial board consider which candidates are well prepared to represent their constituents — not whether they agree with us or belong to a particular political party. We evaluate candidates’ relevant experience, their readiness for office, their depth of knowledge of key issues, their understanding of public policy and their ability to work with the current board . We’re seeking candidates who are thoughtful and who offer more than just party-line talking points. The editorial board will endorse both Republicans and Democrats.
Why are the editorials unsigned?
Our election recommendations reflect the collective views of The Herald’s editorial board — not just the opinion of one writer. For the 2024 election, the board includes: Laurie Williams, Herald executive editor; Jack Briggs, retired Herald publisher; Ken Robertson, retired Herald editor; Rosa Torres, community representative. Chris Trejbal is our editorial writer.
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