Ballots were in the mail this week for the April 17 special election, in which Renton voters will be asked to approve $97 million in school construction bonds.

The proceeds will be used to build a middle school and make other improvements. The measure just barely missed getting the 60 percent majority needed in the February election.

Seven jurisdictions have issues on the ballot, including the Issaquah School Disrict, which is asking for approval of a construction bond that will pay for improvements to Liberty High School in Renton and other district schools.

There will be no voters pamphlet fin the Renton and Issaquah school districts.

“Vote and return your ballot as soon as possible,” said Elections Director Sherril Huff. “The earlier voters return their ballots to the Elections Department, the better. We check every voter’s signature before opening the ballots and have a limited amount of time to contact voters if there are any issues to correct.”

Six King County ballot drop box locations, including one at the King County Elections Office at 919 S.W. Grady Way, will open March 29 for voters to return their ballots postage-free. The ballot drop boxes close at 8 p.m. on April 17.

Voters can return their ballot by mail through the postal service using a 45-cent, first- class stamp. Ballots must be postmarked by April 17.

Tips on how to vote

• Read the ballot instructions before voting

• Use a black ink pen to fill out the ballot

• Sign the voter’s declaration on the back of the envelope using your official signature

• Return ballot early so it can be part of the Election Night results report and there is enough time to correct any issues that may be associated with your signature

For more information on voting by mail, watch a short video, visit the Elections Web site, or call 206-296-VOTE (8683).