Measure M Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is Measure M? Measure M is a $295.0 million general obligation (G.O.) bond program. This measure is intended to address the needs of the student population through modernization projects at the District's fourteen schools. 
• What is a G.O. (General Obligation) bond? G.O. bonds fund projects such as the renovation of existing classrooms and school facilities, as well as construction of new schools and classrooms. Similar to a home loan, G.O. bonds are typically repaid over 25 to 30 years. The loan repayment comes from a tax on all taxable property (residential, commercial, agricultural, and industrial) located within the District's boundaries.
• Why has the District placed Measure M on the ballot? Our school facilities are outdated, and upgrades and renovations need to be made. While facilities have been well-maintained, old classrooms must be upgraded since many do not meet 21st-century educational and technological standards. Proceeds from Measure M would allow the District to improve the quality of the school facilities and education provided to local students.
• Why can't the District meet its facilities needs with its current budget? Today, the scope of improvements needed in the Gilroy Unified School District is far more than the current funding sources available. The per pupil funding which the District receives from the state is intended to be used for the day-to-day business of educating students and not the cost of upgrading, modernizing, and repairing facilities.
• How did the District come up with the project list for Measure M? Over the last several months, with input from staff, teachers, parents and community leaders, the District has prepared a School Facilities Needs Analysis. The analysis identifies the major repairs and upgrades that need to be made. Specific priorities for the Measure M bond proceeds are listed in order below: 

• What will the passage of Measure M mean for our students and the community? Measure M will provide our students with a better learning environment by making repairs and upgrades to existing classrooms and school facilities, many of which are also used and available to the community.
• What will happen if Measure M does not pass? If Measure M does not pass, our classrooms and school facilities will continue to deteriorate. In addition, funds that would otherwise go to classroom instruction will be needed to make critical safety repairs and improvements at the schools. Major repairs will need to be postponed and, as a result, will likely be more expensive to make. 
• What will Measure M cost? The tax rate per property owner is estimated to be $60 per $100,000 of assessed valuation. (Do not confuse assessed valuation with market value. Assessed valuations are the value placed on property by the County and are almost always lower than market values.) Check your property tax statement for your current assessed valuation. 
• How can I be sure that funds will be spent on improving our local schools? By law, all funds have to be spent locally and cannot be taken by the state. Furthermore, an independent citizens' oversight committee will be established to ensure that bond funds are properly spent. Also, by law, there must be annual audits and no bond money can be used for teacher or administrative salaries.