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Board hears polling that shows majority support for proposed $345 million bond; board votes to place measure before voters
Summary
District staff reported a July tracking poll showing 66% support for a proposed $345 million school facilities bond; the board voted to place a bond-resolution on the November ballot and approved required oversight and audit safeguards.
The San Bernardino City Unified School District on Monday received updated polling and outreach results that staff said support placing a $345 million general obligation bond measure before voters in November. Tom Pace, the district's bond consultant, told trustees the district's July tracking poll found 66% of likely respondents in favor, 21% opposed and 13% undecided.
"Support increased from 60% in the baseline survey to 66% in July," Pace said while summarizing the True North/EMC polling series and the mailer outreach. He told the board that support remained above a 55% approval threshold even after testing negative messaging, but warned that economic conditions, turnout and organized opposition could still affect the result.
Pace said the measure would authorize up to $345,000,000 in bonds to address aging classrooms, laboratories, HVAC, roofs, plumbing and electrical systems, accessibility and safety projects, career-technical education facilities, the replacement of portable classrooms, and early-learning/TK facilities. The staff presentation estimated an average tax rate of about $45 per $100,000 of assessed value and an approximate total debt-service cost of $670,000,000 over the life of the bonds.
Staff noted safeguards that would be required by the ballot language: an independent citizens' oversight committee, annual independent financial and performance audits, a separate bond proceeds account, and an annual public hearing. The board voted to approve a resolution ordering the election that will place the question before voters; action to issue bonds or levy taxes would only occur if voters approve the measure.
Trustees asked for a detailed project-prioritization list and a breakdown of how remaining proceeds from prior measures (Measure N) are allocated; staff committed to providing a project list and spending details in a Friday update. The board also asked staff to continue community education and to emphasize transparency and accountability in outreach materials.
