Voters in the Lassen Union High School District will decide this November whether to approve Measure Y, a proposed $17.5 million school facilities bond aimed at upgrading and modernizing district campuses.
According to information released by the district, the bond would fund improvements to aging facilities, including classroom renovations, heating and air conditioning system repairs, safety and security upgrades, and new or modernized instructional spaces.
Projects identified in the measure include:
- Construction and modernization of Career and Technical Education (CTE) classrooms to support workforce preparation programs.
- Improvements and expansion of agricultural education facilities for FFA and hands-on learning.
- Modernization of science classrooms and laboratories, including updated equipment and infrastructure.
- Repair and replacement of aging heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to improve indoor air quality and climate control.
- Campus safety and security enhancements designed to better protect students, staff, and visitors.
If approved, the measure would authorize the district to issue up to $17.5 million in bonds. The district estimates the bond would generate approximately $1.083 million annually while outstanding, with an estimated tax rate of $29.55 per $100,000 of assessed property value each year.
The district notes that assessed value is determined by the Lassen County Assessor and is not the same as a property’s market value. Based on the estimated tax rate, a property assessed at $200,000 would pay about $59.10 annually, while a property assessed at $500,000 would pay approximately $147.75 annually.
The proposed measure also includes several taxpayer accountability provisions. According to the district, bond proceeds could only be used for authorized school facility projects and could not be used for teacher or administrator salaries, employee benefits, or general operating expenses.
Additional safeguards include annual independent financial and performance audits, oversight by an independent citizens’ committee, and a requirement that all bond funds remain within the Lassen Union High School District for local school facility projects.
Under California law governing this type of school bond, Measure Y must receive at least 55 percent voter approval to pass. If the measure does not receive the required level of support, the bond would not be authorized and the proposed facility improvements would not move forward.
