What is Measure W?

Measure W is a $14.0 million General Obligation (G.O.) bond program. This measure is intended to address the needs of the student population through modernization and renovation projects at the District’s six schools.

What is a General Obligation (G.O.) bond?

G.O. bonds fund projects such as the renovation of existing classrooms and school facilities, as well as construction of new schools and classrooms. Similar to a home loan, G.O. bonds are typically repaid over 25 to 30 years. The loan repayment comes from a tax on all taxable property - residential, commercial, agricultural, and industrial - located within the District’s boundaries.

Why has the District placed Measure W on the ballot?

It is important that we complete the job of upgrading our school site. Much was done toward completing the master plan with the passing of Measure K in 2016, but we are not finished. Some of our school’s facilities and classrooms are still outdated, and while they have been well maintained, many do not meet 21st-century educational and technological standards.

Why can’t the District meet its facilities needs with its current budget?

Today, the scope of improvements needed in the Waterford Unified School District is far more than the current funding sources available. The per-pupil funding the District receives from the state is intended to be used for the day-to-day business of educating children, not for the costs of upgrading, modernizing, and repairing facilities.

What will the passage of Measure W mean for our students and the community?

Measure W will provide our students with a better learning environment by making repairs and upgrades to existing classrooms and school facilities; many of which are also used and available to the community, such as the libraries and playing fields.

What will happen if Measure W does not pass?

If Measure W does not pass, our classrooms and school facilities will continue to deteriorate. In addition, funds that would otherwise go to classroom instruction will be needed to make critical safety repairs and improvements at each school. Consequently, major repairs will need to be postponed, and as a result, will potentially be more expensive to make.

What will Measure W cost?

The tax rate per property owner is estimated to be $45 per $100,000 of assessed valuation per year (Do not confuse assessed valuation with market value. Assessed valuations are the value placed on property by the County and are almost always lower than market values). Check your property tax statement for your current assessed valuation.

How can I be sure that bond funds will be spent on improving our local schools?

By law, all bond funds must be spent locally and cannot be taken by the state. Furthermore, an independent citizens’ oversight committee will be established to ensure that bond funds are properly spent. Also, by law, there must be annual audits and no bond money can be used for teacher or administrative salaries.