LAKE ELSINORE—In a solid victory for local schools and present and future students, voters overwhelmingly said "yes" to a $105 million school bond to implement cutting-edge technology and repair our local schools to support student college and career success. On November 8, Measure 'V' was passed by a 66.69% majority, or 24,715 total 'yes' votes.

On August 4, 2016, the Board of Trustees unanimously voted to place a $105 million school bond measure on the November 8, 2016 ballot. It appeared on the ballot as Measure 'V.' In taking this historic action, Trustees spoke out about the need for a bond to provide more classroom capacity; to increase student skills in math and science; to expand career pathways and technology; to increase energy efficiency, and to improve school safety.

President Juan I. Saucedo said, “The greatest impact we can have on LEUSD students now and in the future is securing a dependable, long-term source of revenue to meet our goals for a 21st Century education.”

The purpose of Measure 'V' is to enhance, expand and provide:

1. Classrooms, labs and equipment for career and technology education classes, so students are prepared for college and in-demand jobs in fields like health sciences, engineering, technology and skilled trades;
2. Improved student safety and campus security systems, including security fencing, security cameras, emergency communications systems, smoke detectors, fire alarms and sprinklers;
3. The facilities and technology needed to support high quality instruction in math and science;
4. Upgrades to old, worn-out playground equipment, play fields and sports fields to meet current health and safety standards;
5. The facilities and equipment needed to support high quality instruction in music and the arts;
6. Improved heating, ventilation, insulation, doors and windows to increase energy efficiency and save money;
7. Additional classrooms and schools to reduce student overcrowding and support student education for a 21st Century learning environment.

Built-in taxpayer protections include a citizens’ oversight committee for overall transparency, and annual audits of bond revenues and expenditures. School and administrative salaries cannot be paid from Measure "V" bond funds. Instead, bond proceeds may only be used for designated projects and technology investments outlined in the approved bond resolution.

On average the annual cost to property owners is estimated at approximately $19 per $100,000 of assessed valuation. Depending on the timing of bond issuance, Measure 'V' secures a stable revenue source for technology and facilities investment over the next 30-40 years. Interest rates are regulated and would meet all lawful requirements over the life of the bonds.

The district is now preparing a call for applications from interested citizens, businesses, parents, a taxpayer oversight group representative, and other stakeholders to fulfill the requirements for establishing the citizens' oversight committee within the next 60 days.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we thank all LEUSD and school staff, parent and community volunteers, business and civic leaders--and VOTERS--for supporting our bond election efforts…and for supporting our kids’ future!