Menlo school board moves toward parcel-tax election Menlo school board moves toward parcel-tax election (July 16, 2003)

** Two measures may be on the November ballot.

By Marjorie Mader
Almanac Staff Writer

Voters in the Menlo Park City School District will probably have two parcel-tax measures on the November 4 ballot.

Working to refine the measures to be presented at a public hearing at noon Tuesday, July 22, are trustees Nancy Serrurier and Terry Thygesen, a subcommittee of the board. The public is invited to comment during the hearing in the district office at 181 Encinal Ave. in Atherton.

One measure would enable the district to continue small classes at its four schools by renewing the existing $97.23 parcel tax that expires next June. This tax generates $742,000 a year and would pay for 17 teachers needed to staff classes of under 20 students in grades 1-3 and classes of 24 students in kindergarten and grades 4-8.

The second measure would be a new tax, possibly $70 a parcel, to restore about half the $1.1 million in budget cuts the district made in June in anticipation of state budget reductions. The new parcel tax would restore services to children needing remedial help, said Trustee Serrurier.

This proposed measure would provide funds to attract, train and retain highly qualified teachers. Approximately $530,000 would be generated from the 7,571 property owners in the district who have paid annual parcel taxes.

Under both proposals, seniors age 65 and up, could request a tax exemption if they live on the property they own in the district.

For the measures to pass, at least two-thirds of the voters must approve them.

For more information, send an e-mail to board@mpcsd.org.