Why Alameda voters should support a new school bond
As the chair of Alameda Unified School District's Bond Oversight Committee, I get a close look at the work our school district has already completed to upgrade aging school facilities as well as the plans to finish the job at all of our schools.
Having carefully studied the merits of Measure B on the June 7 ballot to continue upgrading and improving classrooms, science labs and other school facilities in Alameda, I strongly recommend a yes vote.
Over the past decade, AUSD has partnered with school-facilities experts to methodically evaluate the condition of aging school facilities across the island and develop detailed plans to bring each school up to current seismic, health, safety and instructional standards.
The Alameda community overwhelmingly agreed with these necessary upgrades and passed Measure I with 63% support in 2014.
These projects are being completed on time and on budget and include the restoration and renovation of historic Alameda High School, significant improvements to Encinal Junior and Senior High School, modernized science labs and classrooms at many schools and new classroom buildings.
While Measure I accomplished a lot, many Alameda students continue to attend school in outdated classrooms. Out of nearly $600 million in upgrades identified in AUSD's School Facilities Master Plan, Measure I only addressed the first $179.5 million. While some local students attend class in state-of-the-art labs and classrooms, most do not.
Measure B, which would provide another $298 million in bond funding, is on the ballot to complete the next phase of improvements in Alameda schools so that each child has equal access to safe and modern classrooms and facilities.
The measure would finish the basic repairs needed to keep schools safe and functioning and provide state-of-the-art classrooms and labs to prepare students for future success.
Measure B would cost property owners an estimated annual average $44.71 for every $100,000 of assessed value. The payments are expected to last until fiscal year 2057-58.
Priority projects for Measure B include:
• Keeping schools clean, wellmaintained and in good condition.
• Upgrading classrooms, science labs and career-training facilities to support high-quality academic programs in science, technology, reading, writing and math.
• Replacing deteriorating plumbing to save water and improve water quality, and outdated heating/cooling systems for energy efficiency and safe air quality.
• Modernizing outdated middle school science labs to prepare students for high school and college.
• Making essential upgrades to earthquake safety and school security, with improved lighting, electrical and security systems.
• Updating performance spaces, athletic facilities, gymnasiums and outdoor learning spaces.
Since the passage of Measure I in 2014, our independent citizens' oversight committee has received independent auditor's reports verifying that the district has spent Measure I funds following the ballot language. Our reports to the school district board have consistently reported that funds have been spent as promised.
These reports have been vetted by the Alameda community and are available for anyone to read on the district's website.
Measure B will continue to require public disclosure of all spending, mandatory financial and performance audits and independent citizen oversight of the bond program.
Alameda voters have generously supported local school parcel tax and bond proposals, recognizing that quality schools are a big part of what makes the city a special place to live. Even voters like me who do not have school-age children recognize that supporting quality education is a wise investment that protects our quality of life and property values.
A broad coalition of Alameda's most respected leaders and organizations have come together to support Measure B. I have looked at the financials and studied the plans, and Measure B deserves our support. Please join me in voting yes on B.