Hood River County voters now have their ballots that include the Hood River County School District seeking a renewal of its local option levy. The district is asking for a five-year levy, maintaining the same rate of $1.25 per $1,000 of assessed value. A local option levy has been in place since 2004, and it generates about $3.4 million per year to go towards about 35 educational positions in the district. Former district board member Rich Truax points out the levy also generates matching funds from the state, about $728,000 a year. Ballots must be postmarked by Tuesday, May 16.