Measures R and EE for PUSD Schools Get Backing from State and Federal Leaders

A coalition of prominent local political figures has thrown support behind two school funding measures in Pasadena, setting the stage for further debate over educational priorities and fiscal responsibility.

Measures R and EE, slated for the Nov. 5, 2024, ballot, aim to inject substantial funds into the Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD). The initiatives have garnered endorsements from U.S. Representative Judy Chu, State Senator Anthony Portantino, Assemblymembers Chris Holden and Laura Friedman, and Alhambra Mayor Sasha Renée Pérez.

“Voting YES on Measures R and EE is a vote for innovation and excellence, ensuring PUSD schools have the cutting-edge resources needed to prepare students for tomorrow’s challenges,” said Representative Chu.

Measure R, a $900 million general obligation bond requiring 55% voter approval, would finance a wide array of school improvement projects. These include repairing infrastructure, expanding Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics classrooms, and modernizing career and technical education programs.

The bond measure would levy an estimated annual tax of less than $59 per $100,000 of assessed property value. Supporters said that funds cannot be used for administrators’ salaries or diverted by the state. An independent Citizens’ Oversight Committee would provide accountability.

Measure EE proposes an annual $90 per-parcel tax for eight years, potentially raising $5 million annually. It requires two-thirds voter approval to pass. The funds would support Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics programs, career education, mental health resources, and teacher wages. Senior citizens (65 and older) can apply for an exemption.

State Senator Portantino expressed his support for both measures.

“Measures R and EE will deliver big results for our students,” he said, urging community backing for what he called “critical to the future of our community.”

Assemblymember Chris Holden framed the measures as essential for progress.

“Our great State is a beacon of effective progress — our PUSD schools should be too,” he said, advocating for the initiatives. “That’s why I’m urging you to vote yes on Measures R and EE. These measures will enhance PUSD schools with updated facilities, advanced technology, and attract the best educators, securing a brighter future for our students and community.”

However, a group called Pasadena, Altadena and Sierra Madre Voters for School Reform 2024 – No on Measures EE and R opposes the measures, arguing that PUSD already spends more per student than most California districts without better outcomes.

They criticize Measure R for including the building of subsidized housing for PUSD employees, which they see as an inappropriate use of taxpayer funds.

The group notes that funds from the previous tax measure (Measure O) in 2020 remain significantly unissued or unspent.

They also contend that the new taxes will increase financial burdens on homeowners, businesses, and indirectly on renters, without guaranteeing educational improvement, insisting that PUSD, which has declining enrollment, must first right-size the District and reduce its overhead rather than continuously relying on extra tax revenue.