Ocean View trustees unanimously back Huntington Beach ballot Measures A and B to keep libraries public

The Ocean View School District board unanimously approved Resolution 27‑2425 on May 13, endorsing Huntington Beach ballot Measures A and B, after an extended public‑comment period in which dozens of residents urged the trustees to support the measures.

Measure A would repeal a city ordinance that created a politically appointed 21‑member review committee with authority to influence library acquisitions for minors; Measure B would require voter approval before the city could outsource library management to a private, for‑profit operator. Supporters told the board that the measures would protect professional librarianship, preserve access to library services for children and families, and prevent privatization of neighborhood branches.

Speakers during the public‑comment period framed the measures as protections for children and local control. Bob Yuing, a long‑time resident, said a “yes” vote would protect libraries as public institutions and help ensure students’ access to education and job‑training resources. Retired librarian Barbara Richardson argued Measure A would maintain librarians’ role in curation and prevent a politically appointed committee from restricting materials for children.

Vice President Sers, speaking in favor on the dais, warned that privatization would push library decisions toward profit motives rather than community service and said some aspects of the measure are “about democracy” and local control. Trustees emphasized the district’s partnership with the Huntington Beach library system and noted the Oak View branch’s proximity to district schools and programs.

The board directed staff to share the resolution with the district community and noted that the district is providing two official ballot‑drop boxes on Ocean View property through June 10. The vote to adopt Resolution 27‑2425 was recorded on the transcript as unanimous.