A replacement levy for Oak Harbor District is passing in the first count of ballots in the Feb. 14 special election.

A total of 4,007 votes were cast in favor of the operation and maintenance levy, which is 55.6 percent, while 3,203 ballots were cast in opposition to the levy.

Superintendent Lance Gibbon said he’s grateful for the strong support.

“Passing the replacement levy is an investment in our children and community and reflects the tremendous pride Oak Harbor has in its schools,” he said. “During the last four years we’ve seen unprecedented success. Working together with our parents, staff and community, we’re thrilled to be able to continue providing unmatched educational opportunities for every child.”

Voters’ approval of the levy will mean homeowners in the district can expect to pay an estimated additional 25 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. The current levy rate would increase from $2.30 per $1,000 of assessed valuation to $2.55 per $1,000 of assessed valuation.

The owner of a home with an assessed value of $300,000, for example, would pay a total of $765 a year.

The replacement levy will replace the existing levy that expires at the end of 2017. If approved by voters, the replacement will be implemented at the start of the 2018 calendar year and continue through 2021.

The levy covers a sixth of the district’s budget. It funds 125 jobs, classes like art and physical education, after-school activities, computers and technology funding, and many other professional and support services.

The county auditor’s office estimates there’s 600 ballots left to count. Voter turnout was 37.8 percent.