What challenges are facing our local schools?

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Some of our schools were built so long ago that underground pipes and infrastructure are failing, resulting in gas leaks, water leaks, and sewage backups. Last year alone there were 380 roof leaks. 

 

While our schools are well cared for, many were built more than 60 years ago and don’t meet modern building safety codes. Local students and teachers rely on more than 400 portable classrooms that are over 25 years old and falling apart. We need to replace decaying portables with modern, permanent classrooms.  

 

Some buildings aren’t accessible for students with disabilities, and others have hazardous materials such as asbestos and lead pipes.

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What projects could this bond measure fund?
 

Measure N would:  

• Remove hazardous materials like asbestos and lead pipes from older school sites

• Fix deteriorating roofs, plumbing, gas, sewer, and electrical systems

• Upgrade schools to meet current health and building safety codes and improve accessibility

• Provide modern labs and technology to prepare students for college and careers

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Would this measure include any fiscal accountability provisions?

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Measure N requires a transparent system of accountability:

• All funds stay in Vista Unified schools and cannot be taken by the State

• A detailed project list outlining how funds are spent

• Independent citizens’ oversight and annual audits

• No bond funds will be used for VUSD employee salaries and pensions

• Will not raise taxes

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How much funding will be provided to the schools?

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The local school improvement measure will provide $543 million for repairs and upgrades to VUSD schools.

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Would this measure increase tax rates?

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No. Measure N will not increase tax rates. It will extend the current school bond rate to repair and upgrade our local schools. California homeowners are protected by Proposition 13, which limits increases in the amounts of assessed property values.

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How much would this measure cost?

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The bond is estimated to cost $58 per every $100,000 of a property’s assessed (not market) value per year, while bonds are outstanding. The assessed value is often less than the market value of a home.

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Where can I find out about the condition of the school facilities?

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The Vista Unified School District recently published its long-range facilities master plan. It provides details for each school and review of every property, facility, and related system in the school district. A link to the plan can be found here: .https://www.vistausd.org/departments/osc/planning/facility-master-plan

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Could this funding be taken by the State?

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No, the funds generated from this measure will be strictly for the Vista Unified School District and will not be taken by the State or used for other purposes.

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Doesn’t lottery funding pay for schools?

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Yes, but not for school facilities. California voters approved the lottery “exclusively for the education of pupils and students.” The law specifies that “no funds shall be used for facilities”. In fact, there is no dedicated source of state funding for local school improvements. That’s why Measure N is needed.

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I don’t have children attending local schools. How does this impact me?

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Even if you do not have school-age children, supporting this school bond is a wise investment. Good schools improve the quality of life in our community and protect the value of our homes.

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What level of support is required to pass a bond measure?

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At least 55% of voters casting a ballot on the measure must vote “Yes” for its approval.

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How can I check my voter registration or register to vote?

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You can confirm your voter registration status at https://registertovote.ca.gov. If you need to register, please visit https://voterstatus.sos.ca.gov.