Measure L Parcel Tax - Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to Commonly asked Questions
September 2008
Q: Why did the district decide to place Measure L on the November ballot?
A: The Board of Trustees determined that the district needed to take local control of funding to prevent cuts resulting from unstable state funding, assist in meeting the district’s new graduation requirements, and to make certain our students sustain high achievement.
Q: What will Measure L fund?
A: If approved, Measure L will do the following:
♦ Fund programs that help all students meet new graduation requirements and promote high academic achievement
♦ Provide science specialists at elementary schools so students have a strong foundation in science
♦ Fund needed textbooks and instructional materials so every student receives a 21st century education
♦ Attract and retain excellent teachers
♦ Maintain lower class size so teachers can work more closely with students
♦ Make certain our students sustain high achievement by providing ongoing teacher training in reading, math, and technology.
Q: Is there a priority on what programs the dollars will go to support?
A: All identified programs are important for the quality of Dublin Schools. Of particular importance among the programs are those that help all students meet new graduation requirements.
Q: Why doesn’t the state take care of these needs?
A: State funding for public schools ranks among the lowest in all 50 states. The state is currently working to fill an estimated $20 billion deficit. We cannot count on unstable state funding for priority programs. Measure L provides locally controlled funding that can’t be taken away.
Q: If approved, how much will Measure L cost a property owner in Dublin?
A:If approved, Measure L will cost $8 per month ($96 per year) for each parcel in Dublin.
Q: If approved, how long will Measure L be in place?
A:If approved, Measure L will be in effect for five years.
Q: Are seniors exempt from the Parcel tax?
A: An application for exemption is available for seniors and disabled persons.
Q: Can the money be spent for anything not listed in the Measure L argument?
A: NO. By law, Measure L dollars may only be spent on the programs listed in the ballot measure.
Q: How do I know that the money will be spent only on the items listed on the ballot?
A: Measure L requires the District to form an independent Citizens Oversight Committee whose responsibility will be to monitor the spending of Measure L funds and report their findings to the community. In addition, annual independent audits are mandatory.
Q: How will the oversight committee be formed?
A: The Board of Trustees will approve a process for the formation of the oversight committee including the make-up, roles and responsibilities of members, and reporting requirements.
Q: Why can’t we use Measure C Bond money to pay for programs?
A: By law, General Obligation Bond funds may only be use for capital improvements and cannot be used for programs. In Dublin, Measure C, a General Obligation Bond Measure that was approved in November 2004 identified facilities projects at all school sites in the district. This funding can only be spent on those facilities projects, not on programs identified in Measure L.
Q: What will the voters see on the ballot?
A: Because it is a local measure, it will be in the lower portion of the election ballot. Voters will see the following wording on the ballot for Measure L:
Dublin Unified School District Student Achievement Measure
To support high academic achievement in math, science, reading, writing, and technology; attract and retain highly qualified teachers; maintain small class sizes; and provide ongoing teacher training, shall the Dublin Unified School District levy $96 dollars per parcel annually for five (5) years with an exemption for seniors and disabled persons, an independent citizens' oversight committee, no money for administrator salaries and all dollars staying in our community to maintain a high quality education?
Q: What is required to pass Measure L?
A: In order for Measure L, a parcel tax measure, to be approved, 66.7% of voters will need to vote in favor of the measure.
Q: Who pays for the campaign for Measure L?
A: By law, school district funds may not be spent on campaigns such as Measure L. Instead, an independent volunteer committee “The Committee for YES on Measure L, Excellence in Dublin Schools” has been formed. The committee has a budget which is supported through donations from parents, and businesses in the community.
Q: How can I find out more information on Measure L?
A: Information on Measure L can be found on the District Web site, and at the District Office as well as in all schools and PFC sites.
If you have questions that were not answered above, you may contact:
Dr. Stephen Hanke, Superintendent of schools
925-828-2551 ext. 8002
hankestephen@dublin.k12.ca.us
