League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
	Marin, Sonoma County, CA November 4, 2014 Election
	Measure H Santa Rosa Junior College Job Training Measure Sonoma Community College District Trustee Area 2 Bond Measure - 55% Approval Required Fail: 69 / 53.49% Yes votes ...... 60 / 46.51% No votes See Also: Index of all Measures

Arguments For Measure H	Arguments Against Measure H
ARGUMENT IN FAVOR OF BOND MEASURE H Vote YES on H to upgrade Santa Rosa Junior College, address overcrowding, and prepare students to attend fouryear universities and to succeed in 21st-century careers. SRJC is a vital community resource and must stay current. Half of our local high school graduates rely on SRJC for affordable higher education right here in Sonoma County. As the cost of attending a university in California has skyrocketed, more students are relying on community colleges for some or all of their education. This measure will help provide local high school graduates access to highquality, affordable college options. Local high school graduates need to take courses toward a four-year college degree closer to home. Stronger partnerships with California State University, University of California and other colleges will allow students to take university courses at community college locations. SRJC classrooms and laboratories are overcrowded and out of date, which has limited students' access to the courses they need. This measure would enable SRJC to better serve more students into the future. If we don't pass Measure H today, these problems will get worse and more expensive to fix. This measure will support training in public safety, nursing and healthcare, manufacturing and engineering, science, information and communication, technology, automotive and diesel mechanics, agriculture, and others. SRJC must upgrade outdated classrooms, laboratories, and facilities like science and math buildings first constructed in 1955. Measure H has tough accountability requirements to protect taxpayers: All of the funds from this measure will be spent to improve SRJC + not one penny can be taken by the state government, and Sacramento politicians will have no say in how these funds are used. Annual financial audit and independent citizen oversight will ensure funds are used as promised. Join us in voting Yes on H to upgrade SRJC! Visit http://www.FriendsofSRJC.org. s/DANTE B. BENEDETTI Chairman, Clover Storretta Farms s/GAYE LeBARON Alumnus/Columnist/Historian s/ALBERT MAGGINI Retired Trustee s/WILLIE TAMAYO Co-Founder, La Tortilla Factory SANTA ROSA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE s/Jonathan Coe President/CEO Rebuttal to Arguments For REBUTTAL TO ARGUMENT IN FAVOR OF BOND MEASURE H We acknowledge SRJC is a vital community resource and that it has financial challenges. However, taxpayers have a right to expect college administrators to manage their resources so they will not need to raise taxes through bond sales every time a roof or heating system needs replacing. The JC has not performed a reserve study and does not have a fund dedicated for replacement of major building components. As a result of our discussion with SRJC, the administration committed to perform a reserve study; however, they have not accepted the idea of funding basic replacements except through tax increases. The JC operated for over 60 years without raising taxes through bond sales to finance facility upgrades. After a $251 million bond measure a scant twelve years ago, SRJC officials are back asking for $410 million more. With an unpaid balance of $175 million on the 2002 bonds, now is not the time for more debt. In 2002 voters were not told that these bonds were just the first of multiple installments. To the contrary, voters were told in the official ballot argument that the bonds would "meet the needs of the college for the 21st Century". We regret that Measure H also does not adequately provide for replacement reserves. Voters rightly expect college officials to be accountable for spending decisions and make full and transparent disclosure about their financing needs. We encourage SRJC to come back next election cycle with a long term plan for maintaining their facilities. s/JACK ATKIN President, Sonoma County Taxpayers' Association s/DAN DRUMMOND Executive Director, Sonoma County Taxpayers' Association s/TIMOTHY J. HANNAN Vice President, Sonoma County Taxpayers' Association s/ROY D. THYLIN Secretary/Treasurer, Sonoma County Taxpayers' Association	ARGUMENT AGAINST BOND MEASURE H Measure H is a whopping $410 million bond measure. If passed, it will become the largest Sonoma County bond issuance ever. And it comes on the heels of Measure A, the SRJC's $251 million bond that in 2002 was then the largest Sonoma County bond ever issued. With a still unpaid balance of $175 million remaining from Measure A, Measure H is a lot of debt to pile on top of existing debt. But there's more to this story than the sheer volume of debt involved. The question yet to be answered is why is the college coming back for so much more money so soon? Voters were promised in 2002 that Measure A would build facilities like the new parking garage, library and culinary arts center. We were further promised that Measure A would replace and modernize existing structures on both the Santa Rosa and Petaluma campuses. In fact, the official argument in support of Measure A promised that Measure A would meet the needs of the college for the 21st Century. Why when, are we having this same discussion a mere twelve years later? It gets better. Voters in 2002 were further led to believe that Measure A would qualify for matching state funds. Voters were not told, however, that the availability of any matching funds was contingent upon California voters approving a $13 billion state-wide bond measure in a later election. Withholding information from voters is a breach of the public trust that cannot go unchallenged. Voters are entitled to know the whole story. We are entitled to an honest assessment from college officials, both as to how far our money will go and of any hidden requirements lurking in the background. If voters don't demand the truth, who will? Vote No on Measure H. s/DANIEL A. DRUMMOND s/ROY D. THYLIN s/TIMOTHY J. HANNAN s/BRYANT R. MOYNIHAN Rebuttal to Arguments Against REBUTTAL TO ARGUMENT AGAINST BOND MEASURE H Sonoma County voters passed Measure A, the only previous bond in SRJC's 96-year history, with almost 70% support. The independent citizens' oversight committee and annual, public audits show Measure A funds were wellused to repair aging SRJC classrooms and buildings and expand educational access. Completed projects included Doyle Library; Plover Hall; Petaluma Campus expansion; Bertolini Student Center; Burdo Culinary Center; technology upgrades and network infrastructure. A recent refinancing saved taxpayers millions and reduced tax rates by more than 15%. Measure A was a terrific success + even winning an award from the Sonoma County Taxpayers Association. Today, as our beloved and well-used local college nears 100 years old, Measure H is essential: it's time to tackle remaining repairs and upgrades to the deteriorating classrooms and buildings that have served our community for many decades, such as SRJC's math and science classrooms and labs, which date from the 1950's. SRJC also needs critical upgrades to vocational and instructional technology. The world + and Sonoma County + have changed tremendously since 2002, when Measure A passed. Measure H is needed to prepare students for fouryear colleges and rewarding careers in fields like public safety, nursing and healthcare, manufacturing, engineering, science, information technology, mechanics, agriculture, and many others. Classrooms, labs and technology must be upgraded to provide modern career skills and training. That's why people from all walks of life, including leaders in business, agriculture, healthcare and K-12 education are rallying behind Measure H. Vote Yes on H to upgrade and improve SRJC! http://www.FriendsofSRJC.org s/PAMELA S. CHANTER Measure A Chair, Citizen Bond Oversight Committee s/STEVE BOLMAN Superintendent, Petaluma City Schools s/JOHN BALLETTO Vineyard Owner s/CYNTHIA L. MURRAY CEO, North Bay Leadership Council s/C. WILLIAM REINKING Retired Exchange Bank Executive

Tax Rate Statement from Superintendent Sonoma County Junior College District

TAX RATE STATEMENT FOR BOND MEASURE H SONOMA COUNTY JUNIOR COLLEGE DISTRICT To: The voters voting in the November 4, 2014 election on the question of the issuance of $410,000,000 General Obligation Bonds of the Sonoma County Junior College District. You are hereby notified in accordance with Section 9401 of the Elections Code of the State of California of the following: 1. The best estimate from official sources of the tax rate which would be required to be levied to fund principal and interest payments during the first fiscal year after the first sale of bonds (Fiscal Year 2015-2016), based on assessed valuations available at the time of the election and taking into account estimated future growth, is the following: $.02500 per $100 of assessed valuation, which equates to $25.00 per $100,000. 2. The best estimate from official sources of the tax rate which would be required to be levied to fund principal and interest payments during the first fiscal year after the last sale of bonds (Fiscal Year 2021-22) based on assessed valuations available at the time of the election and taking into account estimated future growth, is as follows: $.02500 per $100 of assessed valuation, which equates to $25.00 per $100,000. 3. The best estimate from official sources of the highest tax rate which would be required to be levied to fund principal and interest payments on the bonds and an estimate of the year in which that rate will apply, based on assessed valuations available at the time of the election and taking into account estimated future growth, is as follows: $.02500 per $100 of assessed valuation, which equates to $25.00 per $100,000 in every year. The attention of all voters is directed to the fact that the foregoing information is based upon projections and estimates only. The actual tax rates and the years in which they will apply may vary from those presently estimated, due to variations from these estimates in the timing of bond sales, the amount of bonds sold and market interest rates at the time of each sale, and actual assessed valuations over the term of repayment of the bonds. The date of sale and the amount of bonds sold at any given time will be determined by the District based on its need for construction funds and other factors. The actual interest rates at which the bonds will be sold will depend on the bond market at the time of sale. Actual future assessed valuations will depend upon the amount and value of taxable property within the District as determined by the County Assessor in the annual assessment and the equalization process. Accordingly, the actual tax rates and the years in which such rates are applicable may vary from those presently estimated as above stated. s/FRANK CHONG Superintendent/President Sonoma County Junior College District

Full Text of Measure H

FULL TEXT OF BOND MEASURE H RESOLUTION NO. 17-14 RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE SONOMA COUNTY JUNIOR COLLEGE DISTRICT ORDERING AN ELECTION, AND ESTABLISHING SPECIFICATIONS OF THE ELECTION ORDER WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees (the "Board") of the Sonoma County Junior College District (the "District") has determined that certain educational facilities, infrastructure and equipment at each of the District's campuses need to be constructed, renovated, acquired and equipped in a fiscally prudent manner to attract and retain high-quality faculty, maintain Santa Rosa Junior College as a valuable community resource that provides an affordable, local education, offering career and support facilities for students who desire to learn in-demand job skills or transfer to four-year universities; and WHEREAS, since more than half of all local high school graduates rely on Santa Rosa Junior College, and since the costs of attending a U.C. and State college are becoming so expensive, more than six times that of attending a community college, more students are relying on community colleges, such as Santa Rosa Junior College, and the high quality, affordable college options they provide; and WHEREAS, in today's economic times and competitive job environment, the District must continue providing important training and education for local residents entering the workforce for new professions and income opportunities, as well as for local students to earn college credits, certifications and job skills all at a reasonable price; and WHEREAS, military veterans are an increasing percentage of the Santa Rosa Junior College student body and they need better access to job placement programs and facilities, as well as training or retraining as they re-enter the civilian workforce; and WHEREAS, notwithstanding ongoing efforts to obtain facility money from the State of California (the "State"), the State has been unable to provide the District with sufficient funding for the District to adequately improve Santa Rosa Junior College for all its students; and WHEREAS, the Board has received a draft of the Master Strategic Capital Projects Plan, which has been prepared to assist the District focus on projects which best prepare students for the 21st Century; and WHEREAS, the Board has received information regarding the feasibility of a local bond measure and the District's bonding capacity; and WHEREAS, a local measure will help provide funds that cannot be taken away by the State to expand Santa Rosa Junior College's ability to offer graduates of local area high schools an opportunity to takes courses toward a 4-year college degree closer to home, support local job training efforts and strengthen existing partnerships with Cal State Universities and the University of California; and WHEREAS, such a local measure will include mandatory taxpayer protections, including an independent citizens' oversight of all funds and mandatory annual financial audits to ensure funds are spent only as authorized; and WHEREAS, the Board and District has solicited stakeholder and community input on priorities from students, faculty, staff, business and civic leaders, and the community; and WHEREAS, in the judgment of the Board, it is advisable to provide additional funding to prepare local students and veterans for transfer to four-year colleges and universities, and/or successful jobs and careers, by means of a general obligation bond, issued in a financially prudent manner, and that such projects be undertaken in compliance with all laws relating to open and public bidding; and WHEREAS, Proposition 46, approved by the voters of the State of California on June 3, 1986 ("Proposition 46"), amended Section 1(b) of Article XIIIA of the California Constitution by adding a provision which exempts from the 1% of full cash value limitation, those ad valorem taxes used to pay for debt service on any bonded indebtedness for the acquisition or improvement of real property approved on or after July 1, 1978, by two-thirds of the votes cast by voters voting on the proposition; and WHEREAS, on November 7, 2000, the voters of California approved the Smaller Classes, Safer Schools and Financial Accountability Act ("Proposition 39") which reduced the voter threshold for ad valorem tax levies used to pay for debt service on bonded indebtedness to 55% of the votes cast on a community college district general obligation bond; and WHEREAS, concurrent with the passage of Proposition 39, Chapter 1.5, Part 10, Division 1, Title 1 (commencing with Section 15264) of the Education Code (the "Act") became operative and established requirements associated with the implementation of Proposition 39; and WHEREAS, the Board desires to make certain findings herein to be applicable to this election order and to establish certain annual financial audit requirements, standards of financial accountability and citizen oversight which are contained in Proposition 39 and the Act and to further phase the issuance of bonds so that the Board is satisfied that priority projects have been successfully completed before any more bonds are sold; and WHEREAS, the Board determines that, in accordance with Opinion No. 04-110 of the Attorney General of the State of California, the restrictions in Proposition 39, which prohibit any bond money from being wasted or used for inappropriate administrator salaries and other operating expenses of the District shall be strictly enforced by the District's Citizens' Oversight Committee; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Education Code Section 15270, based upon a projection of assessed property valuation, the Board has determined that, if approved by voters, the tax rate levied to meet the debt service requirements of the bonds proposed to be issued will not exceedthe Proposition 39 limits per year per $100,000 of assessed valuation of taxable property; and WHEREAS, the Board now desires to authorize the filing of a tax rate statement and an appropriate ballot argument in favor of the proposition to be submitted to the voters at the election; and WHEREAS, pursuant to the California Elections Code, it is appropriate for the Board to request consolidation of the election with any and all other elections to be held on Tuesday, November 4, 2014, and to request each of the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters, the Mendocino County Registrar of Voters, and the Marin County Registrar of Voters to perform certain election services for the District; and WHEREAS, in the judgment of the Board, it is advisable to request each of the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters, the Mendocino County Registrar of Voters, and the Marin County Registrar of Voters to call an election pursuant to Proposition 39 on the question of whether general obligation bonds shall be issued and sold on behalf of the District for purposes set forth below. NOW THEREFORE, THE BOARD OF TRUSTEESOF THE SONOMA COUNTY JUNIOR COLLEGE DISTRICT DOES HEREBY RESOLVE, DETERMINE AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. That the Board, pursuant to Education Code Sections 15100 et seq., Sections 15264 et seq. and Government Code Section 53506, hereby requests each of the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters, the Mendocino County Registrar of Voters and the Marin County Registrar of Voters to call an election under the provisions of Proposition 39 and the Act and submit to the electors of the District the question of whether bonds of the District in the aggregate principal amount of $410,000,000 (the "Bonds") shall be issued and sold to raise money for the purposes described in Exhibits "A" and "B" hereto. Both exhibits are directed to be printed in the voter sample ballot pamphlet. Section 2. That the date of the election shall be November 4, 2014. Section 3. That the purpose of the election shall be for the voters in the District to vote on a proposition, a copy of which is attached hereto and marked Exhibit "A" and incorporated by reference herein, containing the question of whether the District shall issue the Bonds to pay for improvements to the extent permitted by such proposition. In compliance with Proposition 39 and the Act, the ballot proposition in Exhibit "A" is subject to the following requirements and determinations: (a) the proceeds of the sale of the Bonds shall only be used for the purposes set forth in the ballot measure and not for any other purpose, including faculty and administrator salaries and other college operating expenses; (b) that the Board, in compliance with Proposition 39, and in establishing the projects set forth in Exhibit "B", evaluated the student safety, increasing enrollment, class size, class availability, Veterans support, information technology and the job training needs of the District; (c) that the Board will cause to be conducted an annual, independent performance audit to ensure that the Bond moneys are expended for the projects identified in Exhibits "A" and "B" hereto; (d) that the Board will cause an annual, independent financial audit of the proceeds from the sale of Bonds to be conducted until all of the Bond proceeds have been expended and accounted for; (e) that the Board will cause the appointment of a Citizens' Oversight Committee in compliance with Education Code Section 15278 no later than 60 days after the Board enters the election results in its minutes pursuant to Education Code Section 15274. The Citizens' Oversight Committee shall initially consist of at least seven (7) members and at no time consist of less than seven (7) members, with the possible exception of brief periods to fill any unexpected vacancies. The Citizens' Oversight Committee may not include any employee or official of the District or any vendor, contractor or consultant of the District. The Citizens' Oversight Committee shall include, among others, the following: One (1) member who is active in a business organization representing the business community located within the District; One (1) member who is active in a senior citizens' organization; One (1) member who is active in a bona fide taxpayer association. In furtherance of its specifically enumerated purposes, the Citizens' Oversight Committee may engage in any of the following activities relating solely and exclusively to the expenditure of the Proposition 39 bond proceeds: (i) Receive and review copies of the annual, independent financial and performance audits performed by independent consultant(s); (ii) Inspect District facilities and grounds to ensure that Proposition 39 bond revenues are expended in compliance with applicable law; (iii) Receive and review copies of all scheduled maintenance proposals or plans developed by the District; (iv) Review efforts of the District to maximize Proposition 39 bond revenues by implementing costsaving programs; (f) that the tax levy authorized to secure the bonds of this election shall not exceed the Proposition 39 limits per $100,000 of taxable property in the District when assessed valuation is projected by the District to increase in accordance with Article XIIIA of the California Constitution; (g) that prior to the issuance of any bonds for projects authorized by the measure, the Board shall determine that no bonds were being issued with a term longer than the useful life of the projects or equipment financed; and (h) that prior to the issuance of the bonds, the District shall consider the impact of proposed projects on possible partnerships with Sonoma County area employers to fill job training and placement needs, so that local students can qualify for local jobs. Section 4. That the authority for ordering the election is contained in Education Code Sections 15100 et seq., 15340 et seq. and 15264 et seq. and Government Code Section 53506. Section 5. That the authority for the specifications of this election order is contained in Section 5322 of the Education Code. Section 6. That the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters, the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors, the Mendocino County Registrar of Voters, the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors, the Marin County Registrar of Voters, and the Marin County Board of Supervisors are hereby requested to consolidate the election ordered hereby with any and all other elections to be held on November 4, 2014 within the District. Section 7. That this Resolution shall stand as the "order of election" to each of the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters, the Mendocino County Registrar of Voters, and the Marin County Registrar of Voters to call an election within the boundaries of the District on November 4, 2014. Section 8. That the Secretary of the Board is hereby directed to deliver a certified copy of this Resolution to each of the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters, the Mendocino County Registrar of Voters, and the Marin County Registrar of Voters no later than August 8, 2014. Section 9. That the bonds may be issued pursuant to Section 15300 et seq. of the Education Code or pursuant to Section 53506 of the Government Code. The maximum rate of interest on any bond shall not exceed the maximum rate allowed by Education Code Sections 15140 to 15143, as modified by Government Code Section 53531. The Board approves the filing of a tax rate statement and primary and rebuttal arguments, as appropriate, and directs their publication in accordance with the requirements of the Elections Code. Section 10. That the Board requests the governing body of any such other political subdivision, or any officer otherwise authorized by law, to partially or completely consolidate such election and to further provide that the canvass be made by any body or official authorized by law to canvass the returns of the election, and that the Board consents to such consolidation. The Board further authorizes the submission of a tax rate statement and primary and rebuttal arguments, as appropriate, to be filed with each of the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters, the Mendocino County Registrar of Voters and the Marin County Registrar by the established deadlines. Section 11. Pursuant to Section 5303 of the Education Code and Section 10002 of the Elections Code, the Boards of Supervisors of Sonoma County, Mendocino County and Marin County are requested to permit the respective Registrar of Voters to render all services specified by Section 10418 of the Elections Code relating to the election, for which services the District agrees to reimburse each of Sonoma County, Mendocino County, and Marin County. Such services will include the publication of a Formal Notice of School Bond Election and the mailing of the sample ballot and tax rate statement (described in Section 9401 of the Elections Code) pursuant to the terms of Section 5363 of the Education Code and Section 12112 of the Elections Code. RESOLUTION NO. 17-14 The foregoing resolution was moved by Trustee Terry Lindley seconded by Trustee Don Edgar, and adopted on July 22, 2014 by the following roll call vote: RESOLUTION NO. 17-14 The foregoing resolution was moved by Trustee Terry Lindley seconded by Trustee Don Edgar, and adopted on July 22, 2014 by the following roll call vote: Trustee Vote Trustee B. Robert Burdo Aye Trustee Richard W. Call Aye Trustee Kathleen Doyle Aye Trustee Don Edgar Aye Trustee Jeff Kunde Aye Trustee W. Terry Lindley Aye Trustee Don Zumwalt Aye Ayes: 7 Noes: 0 Absent/Abstaining 0 BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE SONOMA COUNTY JUNIOR COLLEGE DISTRICT s/JEFF KUNDE President, Board of Trustees I, Dr. Frank Chong, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of Resolution No. 17-14, which was duly adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Sonoma County Junior College District at meeting thereof held on the 22nd day of July, 2014. Attest: s/FRANK CHONG Secretary, Board of Trustees I, B. Robert Burdo, clerk, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of Resolution No. 17-14, which was duly adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Sonoma County Junior College District at meeting thereof held on the 22nd day of July, 2014. Attest: s/B. ROBERT BURDO Clerk, Board of Trustees STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) ) ss SONOMA COUNTY) EXHIBIT A "SANTA ROSA JUNIOR COLLEGE AFFORDABLE LOCAL EDUCATION, JOB TRAINING MEASURE. To upgrade facilities, prepare students for careers/university transfer, attract quality faculty, keep SRJC current, improve student access, upgrade classrooms/labs/technology for 21st Century science/math skills, modernize career education facilities for vocational engineering, nursing, public safety, agriculture, jobs, meet earthquake/ fire codes, acquire, construct/repair classrooms, facilities, sites/equipment, shall Sonoma County Junior College Dis - trict issue $410,000,000 in bonds at legal rates with citizens' oversight, annual audits?" Bonds - Yes Bonds - No EXHIBIT B FULL TEXT BALLOT PROPOSITION SONOMA COUNTY JUNIOR COLLEGE DISTRICT BOND MEASURE ELECTION NOVEMBER 4, 2014 "SANTA ROSA JUNIOR COLLEGE AFFORDABLE LOCAL EDUCATION, JOB TRAINING MEASURE. To upgrade facilities, prepare students for careers/university transfer, attract quality faculty, keep SRJC current, im prove student access, upgrade classrooms/labs/technology for 21st Century science/math skills, modernize career education facilities for vocational engineering, nursing, public safety, agriculture, jobs, meet earthquake/ fire codes, acquire, construct, repair classrooms, facilities, sites/equipment, shall Sonoma County Junior College District issue $410,000,000 in bonds at legal rates with citizens' oversight, annual audits?" Bonds + Yes Bonds + No _____________ _____________ PROJECT LIST The Board of Trustees of the Sonoma County Junior College District, to be responsive to the needs of its community, evaluated Santa Rosa Junior College's urgent and critical facility needs, and its capacity to provide local area students and veterans with support facilities, an affordable education and prepare them for success in college and careers. Job training, career technical education, safety, enrollment, class size and class offerings, and information and computer technology infrastructure were each considered, in developing the scope of projects to be funded. In identifying the scope of projects, the Board has developed a Master Strategic Capital Projects Plan (June 2014), incorporated herein by reference, which prioritized facilities available to support an affordable education for local area students, help veterans prepare to reenter the workforce, offer career technical education in skilled trades, and workforce job training, so that Santa Rosa Junior Col lege remains an effective place for learning and training. In the course of developing the Project List, public input was received from many constituents. It was concluded that if these facility needs were not addressed now, the Santa Rosa Junior College would be unable to remain competitive in preparing students for jobs in high demand industries and university transfer. The Board concluded that the longer they waited to repair and upgrade the several campuses of Santa Rosa Junior College, the more expensive it would be. In upgrading facilities, the Board of Trustees determines that Santa Rosa Junior College MUST: (i) Provide better access to an AFFORDABLE, LOW-COST, HIGH QUALITY EDUCATION closer to home for local students which is needed to successfully transfer to four-year universities; and (ii) TRAIN LOCAL STUDENTS for LOCAL JOBS AND CAREERS in healthcare, public safety, agriculture and building trades, as high school graduates should not have to leave their community to get the skilled training they need for these local industries; and (iii) Provide training and workforce preparation education for students of all ages, including in public safety, nursing and health care, auto mechanics, building trades, science, technology, agriculture and others; and (iv) Provide classrooms and laboratories for a growing enrollment so that Santa Rosa Junior College can better serve more students today and in the future; and (v) Adhere to stringent FISCAL ACCOUNTABILITY safeguards including: (a) REQUIRE ANNUAL FINANCIAL AUDITS, (b)Require citizens' oversight of all funds, (c) No funds will be used for administrators' salaries and pensions, (d)ALL FUNDS WILL BE SUBJECT TO LOCAL CONTROL AND WILL REMAIN LOCAL WITH SANTA ROSA JUNIOR COLLEGE. The following types of projects are authorized to be undertaken at Santa Rosa Junior College: Academic Facility and Technology Upgrade Projects to Help Students, Active Military and Veterans Transfer toFour-Year Universities or be Trained for Today's Jobs Goal and Purpose: Ensuring students and veterans are either prepared for transfer to University of California or the State college systems or trained for in-demand, good paying jobs are major objectives of Santa Rosa Junior College. Veterans are an increasing percentage of the Santa Rosa Junior College student body. This measure will upgrade and expand veteran support facilities and job training to ensure that the growing number of returning service members receive the support they need as they re-enter the civilian workforce or seek to transfer to a four-year college to earn their degrees. Santa Rosa Junior College provides essential job training and workforce preparation for students of all ages + and the demand for career education is growing steadily. This measure will support workforce training and education in public safety, nursing and health care, auto mechanics, building trades, science, technology, agriculture, and many others. High school graduates should not have to leave their community to get the skilled training they need for these local industries. Upgrade and expand facilities (some dating back to the 1950's) for career training in well paying careers and transfer to universities. Provide career technical education in fields such as vocational engineering, welding, auto mechanics and building trades. Modernize and expand job training centers for nursing and other health care fields. Keep instructional technology updated over time. Expand course offerings, classrooms and instructional facilities in core academic classes, by building building a new Santa Rosa Lab and Classroom Complex. Expand facilities for veterans to provide career training and support services to returning veterans seeking training or retraining to reenter the workforce. Upgrade outdated science, math and computer labs and expand College facilities providing instruction in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). Upgrade outdated job-training classrooms, labs and equipment to provide all students with opportunities to learn job skills, by modernizing the 34 yearold Lounibos building. Upgrade classroom technology to provide instruction that gives students 21st Century skills. * Upgrade and replace technology systems used for job training and retraining programs. Improve laboratories to prepare students to work in the fast-growing local job market of information technology and engineering. Update 50-year old Bailey Hall and Button Building. Expand math and science complex to train students in fields such as engineering, biology, chemistry and other sciences, by constructing a new Science- Mathematics Building. Expand Public Safety Training Center in Windsor to support police, emergency medical care and fire science programs. Expand classroom capacity at Petaluma campus, particularly for science, engineering and health science instruction. Repair and Construction Projects to Provide Greater Access to an Affordable Education Goal and Purpose: Since the cost of attending a public university has risen to as much as six (6) times that of attending Santa Rosa Junior College, students rely on Santa Rosa Junior College to save as much as $35,000 in tuition on their way to a four-year degree. Therefore, keeping the College's facilities upgraded will help ensure that our local community college can provide our high school graduates and other local residents with access to high-quality, affordable college options closer to home. This measure will update outdated 50- to 60- year-old classrooms, laboratories and facilities that need important health and safety upgrades. This includes repairing leaky roofs and deteriorating electrical, plumbing, heating, and mechanical systems, helping to avoid even more expensive repairs down the road. Repair aging roofs, and upgrade disabled accessibility, electrical and plumbing systems. Improve heating, ventilation, insulation, doors, lighting, and windows to increase energy efficiency and save money; install alternative energy systems. Upgrade outdated electrical systems and wiring for computer technology and Internet access. Renovate, repair or replace outdated laboratories, classrooms, training centers and support facilities. * Ensure facilities meet earthquake and fire safety codes. Expand and modernize the automotive technology center with newer equipment to teach students how to repair modern cars and trucks, including computerized parts. * * * FISCAL ACCOUNTABILITY This bond measure has strict accountability requirements including (a) an independent Citizens' Oversight Com mittee with representation from throughout our region; (b) annual financial audits to make sure money is being spent as promised; (c) no money from this measure will go towards salaries or pensions, and (d) all money will stay local and cannot be taken by Sacramento politicians. 1. NO ADMINISTRATOR SALARIES. PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF THE BONDS AUTHORIZED BY THIS PROPOSITION SHALL BE USED ONLY FOR THE ACQUISITION, CONSTRUCTION, RECONSTRUCTION, REHABILITATION, OR REPLACEMENT OF SCHOOL FACILITIES, INCLUDING THE FURNISHING AND EQUIPPING OF SCHOOL FACILITIES, AND NOT FOR ANY OTHER PURPOSE, INCLUDING TEACHER AND COLLEGE ADMINISTRATOR SALARIES, PENSIONS AND OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES. 2. FISCAL ACCOUNTABILITY. THE EXPENDITURE OF BOND MONEY ON THESE PROJECTS IS SUBJECT TO STRINGENT FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY REQUIREMENTS. BY LAW, PER FORMANCE AND FINANCIAL AUDITS WILL BE PERFORMED ANNUALLY, AND ALL BOND EXPENDITURES WILL BE MONITORED BY AN INDEPENDENT CITIZENS' OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE TO ENSURE THAT FUNDS ARE SPENT AS PROMISED AND SPECIFIED. THE CITIZENS' OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE MUST INCLUDE, AMONG OTHERS, REPRESENTATION OF A BONA FIDE TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION, A BUSINESS ORGANIZATION AND A SENIOR CITIZENS ORGANIZATION. NO DISTRICT EMPLOYEES OR VENDORS ARE ALLOWED TO SERVE ON THE CITIZENS' OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE. 3. BOND ISSUANCE LIMITS. (a) No bonds shall be issued until the Board has identified projects to be funded. (b) Bonds must be phased in over time so that project success can be determined before more bonds are issued. (c) Bonds must have a term not longer than the useful life of the project or equipment being financed. (d) The availability of State and Federal matching funds shall be considered in selecting projects. The listed projects will be completed as needed. Each project is assumed to include its share of furniture, equipment, architectural, engineering, and similar planning costs, program/project management, staff training expenses and a customary contingency. In addition to the listed projects stated above, authorized projects also include the acquisition of a variety of instructional, maintenance and operational equipment, including the reduction or retirement of outstanding lease obligations and interim funding incurred to advance fund projects from payment of the costs of preparation of all facility planning, facility studies, assessment reviews, facility master plan preparation and updates, environmental studies (including environmental investigation, remediation and monitoring), design and construction documentation, and temporary housing of dislocated college activities caused by construction projects. In addition to the projects listed above, repair, renovation and construction projects may include, but not be limited to, some or all of the following: renovation of student and staff restrooms; replace aging electrical and plumbing systems; repair and replacement of heating and ventilation systems; upgrade of facilities for energy efficiencies, including photovoltaic/solar installations; repair and replacement of worn-out and leaky roofs, windows, walls doors and drinking fountains; removal of outdated buildings and construction of new classrooms and support buildings; installation of wiring and electrical systems to safely accommodate computers, technology and other electrical devices and needs; upgrade facilities to meet current earthquake safety standards; repair and replacement of fire alarms, emergency communications and security systems; install phone tower system in case of emergencies; improve roadway crossings and signage; upgrading, resurfacing, replacing or relocating of hard courts, fields, turf and irrigation systems; upgrade classrooms; build or upgrade facilities for math, physical sciences, and horticulture; upgrade/construct parking lots/garages; repair, upgrade and install interior and exterior lighting systems; replace water and sewer lines and other plumbing systems; construct, upgrade or expand a health sciences and public safety training center, student union, veterans' support facility, hospitality and agriscience center, allied career technical center, industrial technology building, physical sciences building, foreign language, humanities buildings, physical education and aquatic facilities, administrative offices, 54 year-old maintenance yard/warehouse/building, outdoor education labs, instructional buildings, science and technology building, athletic fields, parking lots, turf; improve water conservation and energy efficiency; at the Petaluma campus, expand the science complex and renovate and expand the student services center; at the Shone Farm, improve classrooms, labs and student housing; expand the Southwest Santa Rosa Center; replace outdated security systems; replace existing window systems with energy-efficient systems to reduce costs; improve insulation, weatherproofing and roofs to reduce costs; improve access for the disabled; install and repair fire safety equipment, including alarms, smoke detectors, sprinklers, emergency lighting, and fire safety doors; replace broken concrete walks, deteriorated asphalt; replace/upgrade existing signage, bells and clocks; demolition of unsafe facilities; install new security systems, such as security (surveillance) cameras, outdoor lighting, fencing, gates and classroom door locks; improve drainage systems; upgrade roadway and pedestrian paths for improved safety and access for emergency vehicles, site parking, utilities and grounds. The project list also includes the refinancing of outstanding lease obligations. Moderni - zation projects are expected at numerous facilities, including but not limited to Tauzer Gym (79 years old), Haehl pavilion (33 years old), Emeritus Hall (36 years old), Burbank Auditorium (74 years old), Kathleen Doyle/Jacob Halls (20 years old), Analy Hall (74 years old), Bussman Hall (74 years old), Forsyth Hall (34 years old), Garcia Hall (78 years old), Pioneer Hall (83 years old), Baker Hall (49 years old), Maggini Hall (24 years old), Call Center, and facilities housing District-wide support services. The upgrading of technology infrastructure in - cludes, but is not limited to, the funding of a technology endowment, LCD projectors, portable interface devices, servers, switches, routers, modules, sound projection systems, information systems, printers, digital white boards, upgrade voice-over-IP, communication systems, new computer systems, call manager and network security/firewall, Internet connectivity, wireless systems, technology infrastructure, and other miscellaneous equipment. The allocation of bond proceeds will be affected by the final costs of each project. Depending on costs, the District may not be able to complete some of the projects listed above. Some projects, such as physical education facilities, may be undertaken as joint use projects in cooperation with other local public or non-profit agencies. The budget for each project is an estimate and may be affected by factors beyond the District's control. The final cost of each project will be determined as plans and construction documents are finalized, construction bids are received, construction contracts are awarded and projects are completed. Based on the final costs of each project, certain of the projects described above may be delayed or may not be completed. Demolition of existing facilities and reconstruction of facilities scheduled for repair and upgrade may occur, if the Board determines that such an approach would be more cost-effective in creating more enhanced and operationally efficient campuses. Necessary site prep - aration/restoration may occur in connection with new construction, renovation or remodeling, or installation or removal of relocatable classrooms, including ingress and egress, removing, replacing, or installing irrigation, utility lines, trees and landscaping, relocating fire access roads, and acquiring any necessary easements, licenses, or rights of way to the property. Proceeds of the bonds may be used to pay or reimburse the District for the cost of District staff when performing work on or necessary and incidental to bond projects. Bond proceeds shall only be expended for the specific purposes identified herein. The District shall create an account into which proceeds of the bonds shall be deposited and comply with the reporting requirements of Government Code § 53410.