Measure S
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS MEASURE S?
Measure S is a general obligation (GO) bond measure on the November 8, 2022, general election ballot. If approved by 55% of district votes cast, it will reauthorize $71.5 million, an unused portion of Measure J GO bonds overwhelmingly approved by voters in November 2012. Measure S will allow the district to make critical renovations and improve schools and classrooms throughout the Alum Rock Union School District. In addition, voter approval of Measure S will allow the district to qualify for state matching funds.
WHAT IS A REAUTHORIZATION?
In 2012, district voters overwhelmingly approved Measure J, a $125 million general obligation bond to improve neighborhood schools throughout the district. To date, the district has used over $53 million of Measure J funds for improvements. Measure S will reauthorize the remaining Measure J bonds to give the district immediate access to funds previously approved by the voters. Measure S will reauthorize the remaining bonds to continue updating schools. Measure S will not increase the district’s total voter-approved debt.
WHAT TAXPAYER PROTECTIONS ARE IN PLACE?
Measure S ensures that an independent Citizens’ Oversight Committee must review and report on all bond expenditures, and a third-party auditor must audit all bond expenditures. Measure S includes a specific list of projects that bond funds may be spent on. Laws prohibit funds from being used for administrators’ salaries, pensions, or benefits. Laws also prohibit the state from taking Alum Rock Union School District funds to spend in other districts.
HOW MUCH WILL MEASURE S COST?
Measure S’s average annual tax rate is estimated to be less than 2¢ per $100 of assessed value while bonds are outstanding. Assessed value should not be confused with market value. The assessed value while bonds are outstanding is the value placed on the property by Santa Clara County and is typically lower than market value.
WHAT PROJECTS WILL BE FUNDED BY MEASURE S?
- Improving Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) labs
- Increasing student access to computers and modern classroom technology
- Renovating aging classrooms and restrooms
- Enhancing student safety by improving fire alarms and emergency communication systems
- Upgrading electrical, heating, air-conditioning, and ventilation systems for energy efficiency and reducing energy costs
- Constructing rental housing to be made available to Alum Rock Union teachers and staff at below-market rental rates
- Improving student safety and school security by installing security systems, lockable gates, security cameras, outdoor lighting, and fencing
- Creating greater accessibility to classrooms, restrooms, and playgrounds in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- Repairing and replacing deteriorating roofs
HOW DO I VOTE BY MAIL?
All registered voters in California will receive a vote-by-mail ballot. If you need to register to vote, you can register online at www.registertovote.ca.gov. Once you complete your ballot, sign your ballot envelope and simply drop your ballot in the mail—postage is prepaid—by November 8, 2022. If you need additional assistance or would like to drop off your ballot in person at a vote center or drop box, please visit https://sccvote.sccgov.org/home for more information.