Measure N

Fact Sheet 

On Tuesday, November 8, 2011, all voters in the Millbrae Elementary School District will be asked to consider a $30 million school bond. The bond will provide funds for the district to continue to upgrade, modernize and improve the K-8 schools in Millbrae. Included in the bond measure will be funds to renovate aging schools and build a new cafeteria at Taylor Middle School.

Measure N will provide funds for the district to:
 

• Modernize and renovate classrooms.

• Complete the upgrading of water, gas, sewer, electrical, communications and safety systems.

• Upgrade and improve electrical systems, increasing the ability of students and teachers to use classroom computers and technology.

• Build a new cafeteria at Taylor Middle School. timeline (subject to change)

Millbrae schools were built in the 1950’s and many classrooms have not been renovated. In addition, replacing windows, light fixtures and the heating and electrical systems in some schools will improve energy efficiency. In some buildings, floors and failing ventilation systems need to be replaced. Finally, at Taylor Middle School, the cafeteria that was built for 350 currently serves 850 students and needs to be replaced.

Millbrae voters approved Measure X in 2008. Since then, the district has installed new fire alarm systems, replaced leaking and deteriorating roofs, upgraded electrical and plumbing systems, renovated student restrooms, completed safety and seismic upgrades, and increased student and teacher access to classroom computers and technology.  

The district has completed many projects at costs lower than expected. The district has completed about $38 million in projects using the original $30 million in approved funds. In addition, the district was able to issue $7.6 million in bonds as “Qualified School Construction Bonds”, with the federal government subsidizing 92% of the interest on the bonds. By issuing these bonds instead of the traditional general obligation bonds, the district saved taxpayers approximately $4.8 million over fifteen years.  

Measure N provides for strict accountability. The School Board adopted a specific project list when calling the election. In addition, an Independent Citizens Oversight Committee will monitor all bond

expenditures. This committee of local residents will make sure that all bond funds are spent as planned for the benefit of local students.  

None of the money would be used for school administrator or teacher salaries. All of the money generated by Measure N will pay for school improvements and upgrades as outlined in the District’s Project List. The average yearly cost to property owners would be $25 per $100,000 of assessed valuation (not market value).  

Construction costs cannot be paid for by lottery funds. State law (Government Code Section 8880.5) forbids the use of lottery funds for school construction.