Impartial Analysis of Measure V

Jason Heath, County Counsel
By: Ruby Márquez, Assistant County Counsel

Under the California Constitution and other related state laws, school districts may levy an education parcel tax if approved by at least 66% percent (two-thirds) of voters within the boundaries of that district. Parcel taxes are paid equally by all property owners, regardless of the size or value of the property.

The Board of Trustees of the Soquel Union Elementary School District (“the School District”) proposes a parcel tax in the amount of $96 per parcel annually for a period of six years, beginning July 1, 2020. The School District anticipates this tax would raise $1,500,000 annually.

Within the full body of the proposed measure, the School District has submitted a specific description of how the funds will be spent, including:

  • Salaries for teachers and support staff;
  • Student enrichment programs;
  • Instruction in the arts focusing on music; and/or
  • “Hands-on” science in life labs and/or school gardens.

As required by law, the School District must follow certain accountability provisions during the duration of the parcel tax. This includes creating a special account into which the proceeds shall be deposited. Additionally, the School District will be required to publish an annual report describing the amount of taxes collected and expended as well as the status of any projects funded by these proceeds. Finally, the proposed measure includes the creation of an independent Citizens’ Oversight Committee comprised of parents and community members.

If the measure passes, certain property owners may apply with the School District to request an exemption from paying the parcel tax. This includes persons who are 65 years of age or older and/or specified recipients of SSI and SSDI regardless of age.

Measure V was placed on the ballot by the Board of Trustees of the Soquel Union Elementary School District.  

A “yes” vote on Measure V is a vote to authorize a special parcel tax of $96 annually for six years.

A “no” vote on Measure V is a vote against the special parcel tax.