Rebuttal to argument in favor of Measure E

Grossly misleading ballot language. Ross Valley School District’s ballot and taxpayer-funded mailer describe Measure E as simply “renewing” an existing parcel tax. They DON’T DISCLOSE that Measure E will substantially INCREASE tax revenue and change the levy’s methodology. Some voters may think a Yes vote keeps their parcel tax unchanged. UNACCEPTABLE!

Sneaky numbers. Measure E raises Ross Valley School District’s parcel tax revenue 67%(!) from $4,500,000 to $7,500,000 annually. A gigantic tax spike for apartment buildings, duplexes, triplexes, and commercial properties will be passed on to tenants, while taxes on midsize homes jump “only” 30%.

Administrators will be the biggest winners if Measure E passes. Measure E’s proponents say the aim is to quickly raise teacher salaries up to 14%. With all school employee salaries typically rising in parallel, senior administrators could earn $255,000- 285,000.

Wrong Time to Join the Salary Arms Race. Falling school enrollment is causing school budget shortfalls and layoffs across the Bay Area including Marin.

Higher taxes erode property values. Ross Valley School District home values already fell 9-12% since 2022 because buyers can’t afford surging taxes, insurance and mortgages. A tax increase could lower your property value.

Don’t believe claims of financial urgency. Ross Valley School District’s latest multiyear budget lowballs their forecasted reserve levels … then alerts readers that “it is expected that the reserve will be higher than noted in the current and subsequent years”.

Don’t let them pick their voters. Ross Valley School District HAS the financial ability to wait for the next regular election to get broader support for a better plan.

Reject Special Election Measure E.

LUCY DILWORTH
Foreperson, Marin Civil Grand Jury 2019-2020

JOBY TAPIA
President, Marin Rental Property Association

NORMA CANDACE NEAL-RICKER
Lifelong Ross Valley Resident, Locally Educated

JOSEPH A. MACKIE
RVSD Parent and Community Volunteer

MICHAEL SEXTON
24-year Fairfax Duplex Owner & Resident