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Board reviews TRE outreach plans as staff says measure could bring roughly $2.4 million in state funding
Summary
Staff presented materials for a tax ratification election (TRE), explaining how the vote would preserve state funding estimated at about $2.4 million and describing a targeted outreach plan; board members discussed electioneering rules and messaging tone to reach likely voters.
District staff reviewed draft materials and an outreach strategy for a prospective tax ratification election (TRE). Staff told trustees the TRE would allow the district to retain additional state funding — staff estimated the amount at about $2.4 million — and explained how the tax rate itself would not necessarily increase even as the measure is framed as a tax question on ballots.
"If the Voter doesn't pass, we do not get this increase in state funding, which literally means we go back to a deficit budget again," a staff presenter said, estimating roughly $2.4 million at stake. The presentation included slides intended to explain the difference between property values, tax rates and the voter authorization that captures more state funding back to the district.
Board members emphasized a narrowly targeted outreach strategy focused on likely voters rather than broad social posts that may invite antagonistic comments. Members also discussed electioneering compliance — for example, avoiding visual cues that could be read as urging a 'yes' vote — and confirmed the need to coordinate staff development and internal communications so employees understand permissible activity.
Members recommended using campus-focused roadshows and targeted mailings, and staff said they had drafted step-by-step guidance on mail-in ballots and voter targeting. The presentation also outlined how the district has paid down bond debt and the intent to show voters the fiscal stewardship behind the ask.
No formal action was taken; staff will refine materials and return for further direction.
