February, 2004

PTA Ballot Measure Endorsements

Yes on Measure E

Wouldn’t you pay $6 a month to keep small class size, art and music in the schools?

As reported in last month’s Chabot News, Measure E will provide millions of dollars for class size reduction, bonuses for teachers, after-school programs, libraries, music and art programs, and more.  In this time of fiscal crisis, we need to do everything we can to strengthen Oakland’s schools and avoid future school closures. 

Your support for Measure E is crucial.  The ballot proposition must pass by a two-thirds majority.  Current estimates show that it’s close - your vote, and your friends’ votes, could make the difference.  For more information, contact Friends of Oakland Public Schools at 228-6079.

Yes on Measure Q

Oakland’s public libraries are essential resources - but for too many families, the doors are literally closed. 

Measure Q will provide much-needed money to:

• Keep the Main Library open seven days a week and keep branch libraries open six days a week (many are no longer open on weekends!)
• Hire Children's Librarians
• Buy books and materials
• Hire a liaison with the Oakland public schools
• Fund teen services
• Support the Library's adult and family literacy program
• Upgrade the African American Museum and Library

Measure Q extends a current parcel tax until 2024 (the tax is now set to expire in 2009).  The current rate is $36 for single-family parcels; Measure Q would increase it to $75.  For more information, go to www.saveoaklandlibrary.org/.

Yes on Proposition 55

Proposition 55 is a $12.3 billion bond measure to modernize existing schools and build new schools.  $10 billion of the bond money is earmarked for K-12 education.  Local school districts will have to match 50% of new construction costs and 40% of modernization or rehabilitation costs with local bonds. 

For more information, visit www.2004schoolbond.com/index.html, call (888) 563-0055, or email information@yeson55.com.

Yes on Proposition 56

Proposition 56, the “Budget Accountability Act,” allows the legislature to approve state budgets and tax increases with a 55% vote rather than the two-thirds vote now required; makes legislators pay if the budget is late; sets up a “rainy day reserve fund to balance the budget in hard times”; and requires voters to be given a summary of all budget expenditures.  For more information, go to www.yeson56.org/.