Archive - March 2020 Ballot

There's only one statewide proposition on the ballot this time, but it's a big one. Proposition 13 would allow $15 Billion in General Obligation Bonds to go towards construction and modernization of public education facilities.

In 1978, voters passed another Prop 13, which put severe limits on the amount of property taxes cities could charge homeowners. The predictable result has been devastating for the state schools and colleges. Important maintenance has been delayed. Improvements have been delayed. Counties have had to turn to the state for assistance when they can't raise the necessary funds at home.

This Prop 13 would only change a few things about its predecessor. It would allow districts to issue more local general obligation bonds. It would also temporarily reduce developer fees, which makes little sense, except as a way to garner developers' support for the measure. One smart change, however, would be in the distribution of the funds on a basis that favors public safety priorities, as well as poorer districts. That is a big change from 2016's Prop 51, which doled out $9 Billion in a manner that advantaged wealthy districts.

Prop 13 is expensive and will increase our state's debt. That's unavoidable. But the investments will go towards real things like buildings and equipment that will last for decades. Education pays dividends by creating a more informed and capable society. Whether you have kids or not, you have a stake in what happens to our schools.

Your Political Friend is voting YES.