West Hills College Coalinga Firebaugh Center hopes to update classroom technology, improve energy efficiency and water conservation, install campus security, communication systems, solar panels and battery storage and update computers and devices through the help of Measure K included on the November ballot.
“If approved, Measure K will fund needed classroom technology and energy efficiency at the newly constructed Firebaugh Center,” said West Hills College Coalinga President Carla Tweed. “The center would also be able to install campus security and additional technology.”
Measure K is a general obligation bond measure on the general election ballot. If approved by 55 percent of district votes cast, it will authorize up to $25.1 million for projects that will reduce energy costs and increase security at the West Hills College Firebaugh Center.
“Fiscal sustainability is one of three core commitments the district is committed to,” said Dr. Kristin Clark, West Hills Community College District Chancellor. “West Hills is a good steward of our GO bonds. Over the past ten years, including this year’s most recent refinancing, WHCCD has completed five general obligation bond refinances, saving taxpayers approximately $5.5 million.”
Measure K’s average annual tax rate is estimated to be less than 3 cents per $100 of assessed value while bonds are outstanding, projected to be 15 years. Assessed value should not be confused with market value. The assessed value, while bonds are outstanding, is the value placed on the property by Fresno or Madera County and is typically lower than market value.
“Measure K requires that an independent Citizens’ Oversight Committee must review and report on all bond expenditures, and a Certified Public Accountant must audit all bond expenditures,” said Tweed. “Measure K includes a specific list of projects that bond funds may be spent on. Laws prohibit funds from being used for administrators’ salaries, pensions, or benefits. Laws also prohibit the state from taking Measure K funds to spend in other districts. Additionally, each series of Measure K bonds issued must be repaid within five years, so bond payments don’t extend beyond the useful life of the projects.”
All registered voters in California will receive a vote-by-mail ballot. To register to vote visit www.registertovote.ca.gov.
Completed ballots must be signed and placed in the provided prepaid envelop by Nov. 8.
To learn more about Measure K visit https://www.westhillscollege.com/measure-k/
