Proposed Measure A would roughly double the district’s existing debt, which grew far beyond a 2006 voter authorization and won’t be paid off until 2052. Property owners are on the hook.
Thanks for shining a spot light on the implications of Measure A’s debt burden. Most people support public education, that’s really not the issue. The real question is, is this the correct way to finance public education? Clearly, in areas with growing economies an argument can be made that borrowing money to meet future educational needs might be justified. The trouble is Mendocino and Lake counties’ economies are not growing very quickly and aren’t likely to in the next few years. This is a cautionary flag for the County’s proposed road tax and the City of Fort Bragg’s using bonds and tax increment financing to pay for them. Keep in mind Mendocino County has a significantly higher proportion of senior taxpayers on fixed incomes. Lots to consider and this series of articles adds to informing voters decisions .
I agree. I voted no on this bond because I think it is financially irresponsible even though I would vote yes to support something more sensible. I am shocked at how out of control the debt burden has become. Some types of bonds are fine but bonds like those proposed here are very concerning. Thank you Dennis Miller and Elise Cox for bringing this to everyone's attention.
Thank you Elise for your sober and thorough look at Mendocino College's insatiable appetite for our hard earned money.
They seem to have only learned to add . . . never subtract.
WOW
A total loose of words.
My mind can’t comprehend the total impact of this, so early in the morning!
For perspective, the amount of indebtedness (without Measure A) is equal to two years worth of Mendocino County's general fund.
Thank You for your ability to dig deep into the News. Where others simply report News Releases and then call it Investigative Writing.
Thanks for shining a spot light on the implications of Measure A’s debt burden. Most people support public education, that’s really not the issue. The real question is, is this the correct way to finance public education? Clearly, in areas with growing economies an argument can be made that borrowing money to meet future educational needs might be justified. The trouble is Mendocino and Lake counties’ economies are not growing very quickly and aren’t likely to in the next few years. This is a cautionary flag for the County’s proposed road tax and the City of Fort Bragg’s using bonds and tax increment financing to pay for them. Keep in mind Mendocino County has a significantly higher proportion of senior taxpayers on fixed incomes. Lots to consider and this series of articles adds to informing voters decisions .
I agree. I voted no on this bond because I think it is financially irresponsible even though I would vote yes to support something more sensible. I am shocked at how out of control the debt burden has become. Some types of bonds are fine but bonds like those proposed here are very concerning. Thank you Dennis Miller and Elise Cox for bringing this to everyone's attention.