Impartial Analysis of Measure O

Jason M. Heath, County Counsel
By: Ruby Márquez, Chief Assistant County Counsel

Under the California Constitution, school districts may issue bonds if approved by at least 55 percent of voters within the boundaries of that district. These bonds are sold to the public and constitute a debt of the district. The principal and interest on the bonds are repaid by an annual property tax levied on all real property within the jurisdiction of the school district. This is known as an “ad valorem tax” and is calculated based on the current assessed value of each property.

The Board of Trustees of the Aromas-San Juan Unified School District (hereinafter “the District”), has placed Measure O on the ballot, which proposes the sale of bonds in an amount not to exceed $ 30.5 million. The District anticipates that these bonds would generate approximately $2 million per year.

The boundaries of the Aromas-San Juan Unified School District extend across the Counties of San Benito, Santa Cruz, and Monterey.

The District’s best estimate of the average annual tax rate to be levied is approximately $50.07 per $100,000 of assessed property value per year. The highest annual tax rate to be levied is estimated at $60.00 per $100,000 of assessed property value per year, which would begin in fiscal year 2032-33. If this measure passes, it is anticipated the tax would be collected through fiscal year 2051-52.

In accordance with the law, the funds generated by the sale of the bonds shall only be used for specific purposes related to school site facilities, buildings, and classrooms. The law does not allow these bond funds to pay for teacher and administrator salaries or other operational expenses.

The District has submitted a Bond Project List within the full body of the measure. The types of projects funded may include, but are not limited to:

• School Renovation, Repair, and Update Projects;
• School Site Health, Safety, and Security Projects; and
• Wiring and Technology Updates for instructional support and effective learning environments.

As required by law, the District must follow certain accountability provisions to oversee the funds collected and expended, including the establishment of an independent Citizens’ Oversight Committee, the annual completion of Performance and Financial Audits, and an annual report detailing proceeds received by the sale of the bonds and expenditures made. All of these requirements are reflected in the full text of the measure.

A “yes” vote on Measure O is a vote in favor of allowing the District to sell and up to $30.5 million in general obligations bonds.

A “No” vote on Measure O is a vote against the issuance of the proposed bonds by the District.