Measure Y: Will Temecula Pay Higher Taxes To Improve Its Schools?

Vote-by-mail ballots are being sent out to registered voters starting today, and while there are local and state races to decide, as well as statewide propositions to consider, Temecula has but one local measure on the ballot.

Measure Y asks Temecula voters to decide whether to approve $165 million in bonds to be issued by the Temecula Valley Unified School District in order to make improvements and upgrades across its schools.

Currently, the TVUSD holds the distinction of being a top-rated school district in Riverside County. The district has 31 campuses serving just over 30,000 students.

According to the TVUSD, funds from Measure Y would be used to:

• Upgrade classrooms, science labs, computer systems, and technology infrastructure to keep pace with advancing technology;
• Renovate, update and modernize facilities and equipment to provide new and expanded career technical programs and advanced courses in math, science, and technology so local children are prepared for college and good-paying jobs;
• Improve energy efficiency, and reinvest the savings in programs such as arts and music;
• Repair and replace roofs, floors, walkways, lighting, electrical and plumbing systems; and
• Add classrooms, labs, and other facilities to meet student needs and reduce overcrowding.

If Measure Y passes, the district will be authorized to sell the bonds and levy taxes against property owners within the district to pay the principal and interest on the bonds. The district has stated the average property homeowner will pay about $28 a year, however the amount can rise. (Click here to read a tax rate statement on Measure Y.)

Fifty-five percent of qualified voters who cast a ballot this election season must vote "yes" on Measure Y in order for it to pass, and opposition could be scant: There were no arguments against Measure Y submitted during the filing process.

How will you vote on Measure Y? Are you willing to pay higher taxes for improvements to public schools?