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District details Measure M implementation, ESSER-funded upgrades and June parcel-tax renewal
Summary
Business services outlined Measure M bond planning, recent ESSER-funded air-conditioning upgrades, security camera grants and the upcoming June 3 Measure R parcel-tax renewal that funds staff positions.
SAN MARINO, Calif. — At the Feb. 11 State of the District address, San Marino Unified’s chief business official described recent facility upgrades, grant-funded security improvements and the community vote scheduled this summer to renew a local parcel tax.
Dr. Steven Choi, the district’s chief business official, told attendees that the district used one-time federal ESSER III funds to install new air-conditioning units at Valentine Elementary and Huntington Middle School following a September heat wave that contributed to equipment failures. "This upgrade was especially critical," Choi said, and he noted the district’s maintenance and operations team responded to heat-related equipment failures and storm damage.
Choi also described the November passage of Measure M, noting the bond passed with roughly 71% support and provides $200 million for long-term repairs and upgrades. The district has formed a Bond Oversight Committee and retained a bond consultant to guide planning and project execution. Choi described the creation of a Bond Oversight Committee and initial consultant work already underway.
Security and preparedness upgrades were highlighted: Choi said the district installed advanced security cameras using Department of Justice grant funding, enhanced cybersecurity protections and piloted visitor check-in and PA-system integrations. He said the district stocked and distributed N95 masks and accelerated filter replacement in response to wildfire ash and windstorm events.
Choi outlined the fiscal role of Measure R — the local parcel tax that provides about $1.6 million annually to fund roughly 11 teachers and staff — and said the tax is expiring. "Measure R is expiring. And on June 3, our community will vote on whether or not to renew it," Choi said; he added the renewal is proposed without a tax increase and would continue senior exemptions.
Food-service and nutrition initiatives were also raised: Choi described expansion of share tables to reduce food waste, a new food truck pilot and a recently launched food-safety program. He closed by urging community engagement in the upcoming parcel-tax renewal process while noting the district’s broader bond-planning timeline.
Officials did not adopt new funding measures at the meeting; the parcel-tax renewal will require a public mail-in vote on June 3, 2025.
