Voters would likely renew the larger of two parcel taxes that help fund San Marino’s public schools, according to the results of a random survey that was completed in October.
Larry Tramutola, a financial consultant, and Tim McLarney of polling company True North revealed the findings of their research at the local board of education meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 28. True North conducted a random poll of 300 likely voters who live in the San Marino Unified School District and span political, age and other demographic spectrums.
Of those surveyed, 79% said they would “definitely” or “probably” vote yes on renewing Measure E, which generates $4.2 million per year and expires in June 2021. Originally approved by voters in 2009, Measure E would collect $968 per parcel starting on July 1, 2021, an amount that would be adjusted according to the rise in the Los Angeles Statistical Area Consumer Price Index or by 3%, whichever is less. The parcel tax requires a two-thirds majority to pass, and under the current arrangement expires every six years. On the basis of the survey’s findings, Tramutola and McLarney said renewal of the parcel tax is “feasible,” and suggested the school board place it before voters on March 2, 2021.
After the presentation, the board held a first reading — for information only — of Resolution 11, which, if passed, would place the item on the March 2, 2021 ballot. The matter will be on the agenda at the board’s next meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 11, as an action item.
The polling, which was conducted online as well as over the telephone, averaged 17 minutes of engagement time and has a margin of error of plus or minus 5.5 percentage points. Of those polled, 92% responded that maintaining the quality of education in local schools is “very” or “extremely important.”
On the final ballot test, which took place after opposition arguments were read, a combined 20% of respondents said they would “definitely” or “probably” oppose renewal of the parcel tax.
A supplemental parcel tax, Measure R, generates $1.6 million per year for San Marino’s schools by collecting $366 annually per parcel. First passed by voters in 1991, Measure R also has a six-year shelf life, expires in June 2025 and would need two-thirds approval for passage.
There are 5,400 parcels within the district, many of which are not within San Marino city limits. More than 1,000 voters have taken the exemption that is available to senior citizens.
In a report last month, Tramutola said renewal of Measure E is “essential” for the financial stability of the district. At last week’s meeting, he said failure to renew the parcel tax would send the district into “a tailspin” and trigger massive layoffs.
Renewal of Parcel Tax ‘Feasible,’ Consultants Say
