AgdaPkt 2014-05-12 Joint with Planning

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7.3.B. - Page 1 REPORT To the Honorable Mayor and City Council From the City Manager May 12, 2014 SUBJECT Resolution in Support of Measure A Sequoia Union High School District Bond Initiative RECOMMENDATION Adopt a Resolution in support of the Sequoia Union High School District Measure A Bond Initiative. BACKGROUND The Sequoia Union High School District serves a critical mission, providing Redwood City high school students with a strong educational foundation in core academic subject areas and developing career and technical skills that set students on a path to future success in college and 21st-century careers. Over the past 12 years, student enrollment in the District has increased 20% and is projected to grow another 20% in the next seven years. To meet the growing demand for science classes and college requirements in core academic subjects as student enrollment increases, the high schools require additional science labs and classrooms. In response to this need, the Sequoia Union High School District has placed the Measure A bond initiative on the June 3, 2014 ballot. At the April 28, 2014 City Council meeting, representatives of the District presented information to the City Council requesting consideration of a resolution in support of Measure A. ANALYSIS Measure A places on the June 3, 2014 ballot a $265 million bond that would result in a cost to Redwood City property tax payers of approximately $16 per $100,000 of assessed valuation. The bond funds would be used to provide additional classrooms and labs, as well as updated technology, to continue the District's strong academic programs as its student enrollment grows. All bond funds would benefit local high schools and could not be taken by the state. A citizen oversight committee and annual audits would be required to ensure that funds are used for voter-approved purposes. In recognition that quality high schools are essential to the residents of Redwood City and the future of our community, adoption of a resolution in support of Measure A is recommended.