Election 2016: Huntington Beach-area school district ballot initiatives
Four school districts serving students in the Huntington Beach area have bond measures up for public votes Nov. 8:
Measure O: Fountain Valley School District general obligation bond
Summary: With the majority of Fountain Valley School District schools built around 40 years ago, Measure O would require basic infrastructure repairs, including plumbing and electricity. The bonds issued at $63 million would add air conditioning to classrooms where temperatures sometimes get high. Classes with an emphasis on math, science and technology would receive special equipment and technology. Safety features such as campus security cameras, fencing and fire alarms would receive upgrades.
Ballot argument in favor: Help foster a better learning environment for students by modernizing campuses.
Ballot argument against: None.
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Measure Q: Huntington Beach City School District general obligation bond
Summary: Deteriorating plumbing, roofs and ventilation would be addressed, but a special focus would be placed on math, science and technology courses by building labs for STEM courses. Portables would be replaced with permanent classrooms, and multipurpose or performing arts rooms would be constructed at schools without them. Bonds issued at $159.85 million also would help fund upgrades for disabled access and improve school playgrounds and fields.
Ballot argument in favor: Help maintain Huntington Beach City as a competitive school district.
Ballot argument against: None.
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Measure R: Ocean View School District general obligation bond
Summary: If 55% of voters favor the measure, the $169 million in bonds would help provide upgrades to infrastructure where needed, including electrical systems, ventilation, plumbing and roofs. It also would help improve disabled access and remove portables for new, modernized classrooms. Classrooms would be built for performing and visual arts and music instruction. Math, science and technology courses would have new labs, and playgrounds would be verified as meeting health and safety standards. Emergency communication systems, security fencing and fire alarms would be upgraded.
Ballot argument in favor: Infrastructure upgrades and new classrooms are an investment in students’ academic future and in safety.
Ballot argument against: Be wary about trustees managing tax dollars. Acquiring bonds isn’t the way to help students. Instead, focus on principals, parents and teachers.
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Measure T: Westminster School District general obligation bond
Summary: Aging classrooms would get repairs for leaky roofs and upgrading air ventilation, and instructional technology would be upgraded. The $76-million bond would create a new gymnasium for Stacey Middle School. Other upgrades would focus on onsite parking and disabled access for restrooms, classrooms and playground equipment. Turf and other unpaved surfaces would be repaired or replaced as needed.
Ballot argument in favor: Schools cannot be dependent on Sacramento for help with infrastructure updates, and Measure T is a solution to take control and make necessary upgrades.
Ballot argument against: None.
