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Board approves exploratory outreach on possible bond/tax‑rate extension to fund facilities
Summary
The board authorized consultants to begin voter research and feasibility work on a potential Prop 39 facilities bond or tax‑rate extension after hearing that an extension could raise roughly $200–210 million without increasing current household tax levels; trustees split 3–2 on authorizing the exploration.
The Vallejo City Unified School District governing board on Jan. 14 authorized an exploratory phase of feasibility work and community research to evaluate options for a future facilities bond, including a possible tax‑rate extension that would preserve current homeowner tax levels while generating capital for school upgrades.
Consultants Jeremy Hauser (Team Civics) and Jeff Pickett (ISM Advisors) briefed the board on Prop 39 mechanics, legal thresholds and the district’s unique timing opportunity. Staff and consultants explained that several older bonds scheduled to leave the tax rolls in coming years create an opportunity to extend the current tax rate rather than raise property tax rates for residents; an extension at current levels could yield an estimated $200–210 million in proceeds, consultants said, and could be paired with state matching funds if eligible.
Jeff Pickett outlined the restrictions on Prop 39 proceeds (facilities and capital improvements only) and said a tax‑rate extension would require a two‑thirds board vote to place on the ballot and a 55% voter approval for passage. Consultants estimated the initial opinion research and outreach would cost on the order of $50,000 and are the recommended first phase to test community support and tax‑rate sensitivity.
Trustees debated timing and optics while staff reductions and school closures are underway; Dr. Young criticized conducting paid voter research while layoffs and closures are taking effect, saying it “is not a good look right now.” The board voted to authorize exploratory feasibility work and research (motion passed 3–2).
Next steps: consultants will conduct scientifically designed voter research and return to the board with recommendations and proposed project lists before any decision to place a measure on the ballot.
