Update: IRSD Referendum on June 5 Fails to Pass
- 39th District Republicans
- Jun 13
- 2 min read
The Indian River School District’s (IRSD) latest attempt to pass a tax referendum on June 5 has failed — by an even wider margin than the March 2025 vote. After spending more than $104,000 on two referendums in under six months, voters have clearly voiced their opposition to higher taxes and increased spending.
Missed Earlier Updates? Click the Arrow for Background on the IRSD Referendum:
The unofficial vote totals for the June 5 referendum were:
FOR: 5,700
AGAINST: 6,766
Official Statement from the Superintendent
With the defeat of the referendum, Superintendent Dr. Jay Owens shared a candid assessment of the district’s challenges moving forward:
“With the defeat of the referendum, IRSD’s administration and Board of Education face some difficult decisions in the coming months. We understand that the referendum process is part of the school funding system in Delaware and we respect the wishes of our public. The district has been operating at a budget deficit for the past two fiscal years and operating expenses will continue to outpace local revenue streams. The district has already made significant reductions to staff positions and discretionary budgets among numerous cost-saving initiatives for next year. We will continue to strive to provide our students with the best educational services possible with the resources available.”
Clear Message from the Community
Residents are pushing back against what they see as fiscal irresponsibility. With the district already spending around $21,000 per student, many are questioning where that money is going — especially when student performance remains deeply concerning.
Despite the high investment per student, IRSD continues to struggle with academic outcomes. Many in the community are demanding better results, transparency, and accountability — not just more money.
The district now faces a critical decision: Will it listen to the taxpayers? Future proposals must focus on real reform and measurable improvements. Without that, public trust — and support — will remain out of reach.
We’ll continue monitoring developments and advocating for smarter spending and better education for our students.
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