Measure K: Parcel Tax to Support our Schools

Berryessa voters have been very supportive of the school district.  Despite the fact that only 25% of the voters come from households with children in our schools, 72% of them voted in 2008 to support Measure W, which was a small parcel tax of $79 per year to support programs in our 13 schools.

The annual revenue we receive from the state of California has dropped by $9 million over the past five years.  While the revenues from our parcel tax ($1.7 million per year) doesn't make up for that amount, it has provided a much needed band-aid against having to make even more devastating cuts.  As a result, we have been able to maintain K-3 class size at just 24 students (most of our neighboring districts have increased to 30) and keep our libraries open.  We also pay for science and math teachers out of the Measure W funds.

In order to ensure that this source of revenue continues into the future, the Board of Trustees has placed an 8 year extension on the November ballot.  UPDATE: The extension is Measure K.  Measure K will not increase anybody's property taxes.  It will simply keep them where they are until the year 2023.  Given the uncertain fiscal climate in the state, it is important to have a steady, local source of funds that cannot be taken away by the state or any other entity. 

Berryessa voters will be hearing more about Measure K between now and election day, November 6.  Thanks again for all your support of Berryessa schools.