Realtors voted to join other supporters of a bond measure for the Tahoma School District, not only by a unanimous endorsement of the proposal, but also by pledging assistance for a “get-out-the-vote” campaign.

The $195 million funding request to build and renovate schools throughout the overcrowded district is on the Nov. 5 General Election ballot.

The bond would provide funding to construct a new high school and enable realignment and renovation of eight existing schools. Tahoma School District serves approximately 7,500 students in and around Maple Valley, one of the fastest growing areas in the state.

“As a Realtor, I know first-hand about the value of good schools. It’s the first thing homebuyers ask about,” said Shane Davies, the father of two children who attend schools in the district. “To have the enthusiastic support of my colleagues from Seattle King County Realtors is gratifying – and to have some of them who don’t even live in the district volunteer to help with our phone banks speaks volumes about the importance and urgency of this funding request.”

Davies, a longtime area resident, community volunteer, and the owner of Windermere’s Maple Valley office, said the proposition is also about sustaining the area’s reputation as a desirable place for raising a family.

A 60 percent yes vote is required to pass the measure with a minimum turnout of 8,192 voters.