Last night the School Board met to discuss the possibility of placing a new Parcel Tax measure on the ballot in November. See the article in the San Mateo Daily News that discusses the meeting. The new ballot measure would effectively replace the existing parcel tax (Measure D), increase the per parcel amount by $75, and have a perpetual term.
This is an absolutely crucial measure that will allow us to both preserve programs in the light of extremely uncertain (and variable) state funding as well as expand new programs, better attract and retain teachers, and march toward that “inspired” education for all of our children.
Although there are some pros and cons to putting the measure on this November’s election, the Board felt that, on balance, the November election would provide a favorable environment giving the expected historical turnout. There was a small dispute on the language of the ballot measure, which will need to be resolved by the next meeting on August 4th. At this meeting we will take the official action item to place the measure on the ballot.
When the School Board votes to put a measure on the ballot, then an independent campaign committee will take over, with volunteers to help fund raise and campaign. You’ll soon hear more from me about that.
