What is Measure A?

Measure A on the November 5, 2024 ballot will provide crucial, locally controlled funding to upgrade and improve Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD) schools. By investing in safety, security, and essential infrastructure, Measure A ensures our schools continue to offer high-quality education for decades to come.

Why do we need Measure A?

Many of our MPUSD schools are over 50 years old and urgently need upgrades to ensure safety and support modern learning. While some updates have been made, significant improvements are still necessary. Schools need secure entry points, updated security systems, and modernized classrooms.

Additionally, affordable housing is essential to attract and retain qualified teachers and staff, ensuring our students succeed in school, college, and future careers.

What will Measure A do?

Voting YES on A will:

• Expand career technical facilities to prepare students for college and in-demand careers in medicine, auto tech, construction, and culinary arts.

• Provide affordable, rentable housing to attract and retain qualified teachers and staff.

• Upgrade and repair classrooms for science, technology, arts, athletics, and math.

• Update outdated plumbing, electrical, and ventilation systems, repairing roofs, and installing solar panels for energy efficiency.

How can I be sure funds from Measure A would be spent as promised?

Measure A includes strict fiscal accountability measures to ensure funds are used responsibly:

• Every penny of Measure A stays local, benefiting MPUSD schools only.

• Mandatory citizens’ oversight, independent annual audits, and public reports are required.

• No funds can be spent on administrators’ salaries or pensions.

• Measure A will help MPUSD qualify for state matching funds that would otherwise go to other districts.

Will funds from Measure A be used for administrator salaries and pensions?

No. By law, no funds from Measure A can be used for operating expenses, including administrator salaries and pensions.

How much will Measure A cost?

Measure A would cost property owners 5¢ per $100 of a property’s assessed (not market) value, or about $240 a year for the typical homeowner.

What is the difference between assessed value and market value?

Assessed value is usually much lower than market value, especially for properties purchased long ago. The assessed value is based on the original purchase price and can only increase by up to 2% per year, while market value fluctuates based on current market conditions. Measure A’s cost is based on the lower assessed value.

Didn’t we already pass a measure to address these needs?

In 2018, voters approved Measure I, a $213 million bond measure that modernized and repaired many of our schools. However, new repairs are now necessary, and Measure I did not cover teacher housing. Measure A will provide the funds needed to update classrooms, labs, and facilities, ensuring high-quality instruction in math, science, engineering, arts, athletics, and technology for all students in our district.

What if I don’t have children attending local schools?

Supporting Measure A benefits everyone. High-quality public schools attract families to our community, maintain property values, and contribute to the overall quality of life in our neighborhoods.

When can we vote on Measure A?

Measure A will be on the November 5, 2024 ballot. All registered voters within the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District will receive a ballot by mail in early October. You can vote by mail, drop your ballot in a drop box, or vote in person at a designated vote center. As soon as you receive your ballot, please vote YES on Measure A to secure the future of our local schools.

How many votes does Measure A need to pass?

To pass, Measure A needs the support of 55% of voters who cast a ballot on the measure. It’s critical to vote YES to ensure our schools receive the funding they need.

How can I ensure I’m registered to vote for Measure A?

You can register to vote at www.registertovote.ca.gov. To learn more about voting in this election, please contact the Monterey County Registrar of Voters at www.countyofmonterey.gov/government/departments-a-h/elections/home or call 831-796-1499.

Your vote for Measure A ensures all MPUSD students have the safe and modern schools they deserve.

How can I get involved or learn more about Measure A?

Our grassroots campaign is driven by parents, teachers, and community leaders dedicated to passing Measure A. You can help by donating to the campaign, displaying a YES on A lawn sign, and adding your name to our list of Measure A supporters!