Santa Paula board approves placing $48.6 million facilities bond on November ballot

The Santa Paula Unified School District board voted to order an election on a proposed general‑obligation facilities bond of up to $48,600,000, which the administration said would fund renovations across four project areas including a rebuilt gym, pool and site work, performing‑arts/auditorium upgrades and track renovation.

Administration said the district used a conservative 4.5% growth assumption in property assessments (down slightly from recent year averages) to increase the bond capacity while projecting a lower tax rate; staff presented an estimated tax impact of about $27.98 per $100,000 of assessed value. The district also reported that its architectural packet has been accepted by the Division of the State Architect for review, a step that allows project plans to move toward DSA comments and eventual construction approval.

Board members discussed outreach and campaign plans if the measure is placed on the ballot, noting past elections were close and that the district intends to pursue grassroots outreach, labor‑partner engagement and student civic education efforts. Trustees asked whether projects would proceed if voters reject the bond; staff said the bridal gym (insured/rebuilt with separate funding) will proceed, but many pool and other site improvements depend on bond approval. Trustees also suggested including clauses or prospectus language that could return unused bond proceeds to the community if projects come in under budget.

Trustee Ramos moved the resolution and Trustee Frutos seconded. The motion passed on a preferential/voice vote; the board directed administration to return with any refined cost or rate data as interest and construction estimates develop.

The board will seek a 55% voter approval threshold if the measure goes forward in November 2026.