Oct 14 2019

OPINION: Yes on G and No on H Ballot Measures

News coverage against Measure H, “No on Piedmont’s school tax increase,” was published in the East Bay Times, the former Oakland Tribune.  Click below to access the full article.

“Voters in the Nov.  5 special election should approve Measure G, which would extend what district officials have said is the largest parcel tax in the state.  But voters should reject Measure H, which would add a new one. “

“This district isn’t suffering.  At a certain point, residents need to ask district officials how much is enough.”

  https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2019/10/12/editorial-piedmont-voters-should-reject-increase-to-record-tax/

Local Measures
Measure G Parcel Tax Renrewal — Piedmont Unified School District (2/3 Approval Required)
To maintain the high quality of education in Piedmont schools, continue funding programs in math, science, technology, engineering, English, music, and arts, keep textbooks and instructional technology up to date, maintain smaller class sizes, and attract and retain qualified teachers, shall the Piedmont Unified School District renew its expiring parcel tax at an annual rate of $2,763 per parcel for 8 years, providing 10.8 million dollars annually, with independent citizen oversight and all money staying local?
Measure H Parcel Tax Increase — Piedmont Unified School District (2/3 Approval Required)
To provide critically needed funding to attract and retain high quality teachers and educational support staff, shall the Piedmont Unified School District levy a tax of $0.25 per square foot of building improvements, providing 2.6 million dollars annually in dedicated funding for Piedmont schools for 8 years, with independent citizen oversight and all money staying local?
Editors’ Note: PCA does not support or oppose ballot measures.

2 Responses to “OPINION: Yes on G and No on H Ballot Measures”

  1. We are long over-due for senior exemption in these taxes. There is clear evidence that such exemptions are badly needed and, in spite of what the district claims, they can legally be included.

  2. With all due respect, George, I don’t think a senior exemption would fully address concerns about the level of taxes in Piedmont. I also worry about heaping more taxes on to the families who have stretched financially to move here. The school taxes would be in addition to parcel taxes and bond payments. The justification for Measure H is weak. The measure says funds will be used to attract and retain teachers and support staff – what does that mean? In response to the East Bay Times editorial stating that Piedmont has the highest taxes of our peer districts, the School Board should look at those peers for cost saving ideas. Instead I see money being spent for the fanciest facilities, where other alternatives might have sufficed.

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