Pass: 761 / 59.64% Yes votes ...... 515 / 40.36% No votes

See Also: Index of all Measures

Impartial Analysis

Greenfield Union School District Frequently Asked Questions Handout

Although it appears that our schools are in good shape based on achievements by our students, our classrooms need significant repairs. Faced with aging classrooms and the need to bring school facilities up to current standards, the Greenfield Union School District has placed Measure L, a general obligation bond measure, on the June 8th ballot to modernize and renovate our aging schools. The following information is provided to assist voters in understanding the facts behind Measure L and how its passage will affect the District and our community.

What is Measure L? Measure L is an $8.3 million general obligation (G.O.) bond program. It is intended to address the needs of the student population through modernization projects at the District's three elementary schools and one middle school. In addition, this measure will make major facility improvements like replacing portable classrooms with permanent classrooms, replacing old plumbing and windows, modernizing Greenfield Elementary; improving energy efficiency; as well as repairing and replacing leaky roofs, unsafe playgrounds, and inadequate technology.

What is a general obligation (G.O.) bond? G.O. bonds fund projects such as the renovation of existing classrooms and school facilities, as well as construction of new schools and classrooms. Similar to a home loan, G.O. bonds are typically repaid over 25 to 30 years. The loan repayment comes from a tax on all taxable property - residential, commercial, agricultural and industrial - located within the District's boundaries.

Why did the District place Measure L on the ballot? The District's schools are outdated and major upgrades and renovations need to be made. While facilities have been well maintained, 30-60 year-old classrooms must be upgraded since many do not meet 21st century education and technology standards. Measure L would allow the District to improve the quality of education provided to local children.

Why can't the District meet its facilities needs with its current budget? Today, the scope of improvements needed in the Greenfield Union School District is far more than the current funding sources available. The per pupil funding which the District receives from the state is intended to be used for the day-to-day business of educating children and not the cost of upgrading, modernizing, and repairing facilities.

How did the District come up with the project list for Measure L? Over the last several months with input from staff, teachers, parents, community leaders, and the District architect, the District has prepared a School Facilities Master Plan. The Master Plan identifies the major repairs and upgrades that need to be made. Examples of the specific types of projects identified include:

• Modernizing outdated classrooms and school facilities
• Replacing old and deteriorating plumbing and sewer systems
• Upgrading and expanding outdated instructional technology
• Replacing temporary portable classrooms with permanent classrooms
• Improving energy efficiency, including windows, lighting and solar panels

What will happen if Measure L does not pass? If Measure L does not pass, our classrooms and school facilities will continue to deteriorate. In addition, funds that would otherwise go to classroom instruction will be needed to make critical safety repairs and improvements at each school. Major repairs will need to be postponed and as a result will potentially be more expensive to make.

What will Measure L cost? The tax rate per property owner is estimated to be $30 per $100,000 of assessed valuation per year or approximately $2.50 per month. (Do not confuse assessed valuation with market value. Assessed valuations are the value placed on property by the County and are almost always lower than market values). Check your property tax statement for your current assessed valuation.

How can I be sure that Measure L funds will be spent on improving our local schools? By law, all Measure L funds have to be spent locally and cannot be taken by the State. Furthermore, an independent citizens' oversight committee will be established to ensure that bond funds are properly spent. Also, by law, there must be annual audits and no bond money can be used for teacher or administrative salaries.

This fact sheet is provided for your information only. It is not an endorsement for any ballot measure.