On Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016, the voters in the Konocti Unified School District (KUSD) will be asked to consider Measure Y, a local school bond. 

KUSD has increased enrollment by 300 students in the past three years and we are running out of classroom space.

Measure Y funds will be used to build new classrooms and science labs to accommodate our growing student enrollment.

Funds will also replace or improve our older school buildings, help ensure the safety and security of our students and our staff, and provide better access to modern technology.

Measure Y provides for strict accountability. We will conduct annual audits to ensure bond funds are spent properly and an independent citizens’ oversight committee will be appointed to monitor and report to the community on all bond expenditures.

The oversight committee, composed of local residents, will ensure that all bond funds are spent as planned for the benefit of local elementary and high school students. 

The district has been successful with bond funds in the past. The district completed all projects promised to voters in 2004 and the district also secured almost $14 million in state matching and joint use funds. If Measure Y is successful, the district will be eligible additional matching funds from the state.

Measure Y provides local control and funding, and increases the number of classrooms for our student population. Quality schools protect and enhance our property values and our community. 

Please vote yes on Measure Y.

Sue Burton lives in Clearlake Oaks, Calif. She is a member of the Konocti Unified School District Board of Trustees.