2/3% (66% of voters must vote "YES" for this Measure to pass)

To provide local funding the State cannot take away, and preserve quality education by: providing manageable class sizes to improve core academics like math, science, reading/ writing, restoring arts/ music programs, attracting/ retaining quality teachers, improving campus safety/ cleanliness, preparing students for college and workforce, shall West Contra Costa Unified School District charge an annual tax of 7.2 cents per square foot of building area, or $7.20 per vacant parcel for five years, exempting seniors and requiring independent citizen oversight?

SOUND FAMILIAR??? WHERE HAVE WE HEARD THIS BEFORE???

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Argument AGAINST Measure M

PRIMARY ARGUMENT AGAINST MEASURE M

In June WCCUSD put a $380,000,000 bond measure on the ballot. Highly-paid consultants say that a bond is easier to pass because it only needs 55% of the votes. We knew then they would be back for a parcel tax when the bond passed, and here they are.

It seems the School Board is spending more time and money on ballots and surveys than they are on budgeting. California's residents are struggling financially. WCCUSD has already 7 items on your property bill for taxes or assessments or bonds. The amount you pay will continue to rise as more bonds are issued. Why is the District not borrowing from their bond funds?

The District's enrollment is declining. Isn't it logical that we should need less money, not more? We are already paying huge amounts to the District. Are the students doing better because of it? Exemptions for seniors? That applies to seniors who (1) own their home and (2) if they submit an annual application. Measure M funds are to be used in "local" schools? There's nothing to ensure that your dollars will be used in your neighborhood, or applied with any equity. Promises of an "oversight" committee give voters a false sense of security. WCCUSD Citizen's Bond Oversight Committee has no authority to impose changes or make decisions. The Board of Trustees has that sole power. The buck stops with them.

As long as money flows, there will be no meaningful change. Demand better money management and accountability from your school district by withholding your support.

Vote with us and say NO to Measure M.