City parcel tax too close to call

June 9, 2008
By Heather Murtagh

A $78-per-parcel tax before Millbrae voters created results too close to call last night leaving the community wondering if the second attempt to lessen the effects of revenue loss will be successful.

Measure P has the potential to generate up to $492,648 for the district annually before the senior exemptions. A fraction of a percentage is the shortfall for the Millbrae measure last night with 66.2 percent voting yes, according to semi-official election results provided by the San Mateo County Elections Office. The measure requires a 66.7 percent yes vote to pass.

The parcel tax was put on the ballot to help alleviate a potential loss of revenue in the upcoming year, as well as address previous cuts.

"Because we have been forced to cut our budget by $1.8 million over the past few years, we are seriously jeopardizing our ability to continue our excellent educational programs. Therefore, we need a successful property tax, Measure P, election to support the expected and deserved excellent education for all of our students," Superintendent Shirley Martin previously said.

Results were close all evening. Supporters were anxious but optimistic throughout the evening, said Svetlana Vaksberg, Friends of Excellent Millbrae Schools co-chair.

Millbrae began cuts five years ago totaling more than $1.8 million during that time. The anticipated loss of $570,000 would be an additional reduction. In October, the board approved cuts including the elimination of two instructional aide positions, laying off one instructional aide, reducing the hours of two computer aides, reducing the hours of four library technicians, reducing one noon duty assignment and reducing two instructional aides.

Ten and a half hours of daily classroom help was restored utilizing parent donations. Many of the proposed state cuts affect areas already cut by the district. Those against Measure P say state cuts will not be as drastic and explained money can be raised locally to cover shortfalls. District parents, however, argue not having a parcel tax will negatively impact education.

The parcel money could be used to offset state budget cuts, to reinstate eliminated music, library, instructional and technology aides and custodians, protect teachers from layoffs and to support and maintain the district's academic programs and classroom health and safety.  Positions previously cut will not be restored if Measure P fails, according to information provided by the district. More cuts, including teachers, would be possible in this situation.

In May 2007, voters declined a proposed $78 annual, five-year parcel tax. The all-mail ballot showed 2,743 voters — 64.4 percent — were in favor of Measure R falling just short of the required 66.7 percent.

Heather Murtagh can be reached by e-mail: heather@smdailyjournal.com or by phone: (650) 344-5200 ext. 105.

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