Phoenix Elementary leaders outline November ballot measure to allow long-term leases; community speakers urge transparency

The Phoenix Elementary District on Tuesday detailed a proposed ballot proposition that would give voters permission for the district to enter into long-term leases, sell, or exchange district real property.

District Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives Sarah Sims told the governing board the measure would allow long-term leases of 21 to 99 years, sales with proceeds restricted to bond debt repayment and reinvestment in buildings, and, rarely, property exchanges. "Lease funding allows for flexible spending. It's much more flexible than sale," Sims said, explaining examples of permitted uses including constructing or improving buildings, purchasing buses, upgrading safety infrastructure, and supporting programming such as preschool supplementation, after-school activities and teacher mentoring.

Sims presented a slide listing current lessees, square footage and approximate price per square foot. She said Monterey Park’s figure — $15.54 per square foot — is an in‑kind valuation for services such as discounted childcare and half‑day preschool access; she characterized long‑term leases as a tool that can help potential…