There are top reasons why we should vote “yes” on BB, our local school bond measure. This bond would finance health and safety needs, such as mold and asbestos removal; fire system, electrical, ventilation and drainage repairs; seismic retrofitting; energy conservation; and replacing older portable classrooms. Yes, some of this has been done in the past, but not enough of it. As our schools age, they continue to need updating and maintenance.
From the last school bond, passed in 1998, Malibu High built a high school gym, a 12-classroom building, and a legal track, and renovated an old auditorium into a theater. The campus continues to make the transition from middle school to high school facility, but still has the same small, middle school library.
Juan Cabrillo Elementary received two relocatable classrooms, which allowed class sizes to be reduced to 20 students in the lower grades; also, new playground equipment, ADA upgrades, and new paint, cupboards and flooring in classrooms. Webster Elementary received a library expansion, a grass playfield, safer playground equipment, a redesigned bus drop-off area and two new classrooms.
Point Dume Marine Science Elementary received new and renovated restrooms, roofing and window replacements, and an exterior paint job on top of the major restoration that had occurred when the school had reopened.
If the statewide school bond 1D passes, our Measure BB will provide the matching funds required to access the state bond money. If 1D does not pass, our local bond money will be all the more needed for physical improvements to our schools.
Measure BB provides for strong fiscal accountability protection, including a citizens’ oversight committee. The law requires a cap on the cost to homeowners, and that the money be used only for capital projects. The strength of our local public schools has been a big factor in elevating our property values in Malibu.
We should provide the very best educational opportunities for our students, because we can. Please vote Yes on BB!
Colleen O’Beirne Brydo