Argument Against Measure E

This bond issue is a bad idea for 3 reasons:

1. The funds are not needed

2. It conflicts with the master plan

3. It's too costly and badly timed

According to the Board of Directors of Gavilan College resolution that placed this bond on the ballot, "the addition of new classrooms…the increase of available parking spaces…are among the highest priorities of the Board…." Yet, from the Fall of 2000 to the Fall semester of 2003, total enrollment has declined from 6,290 to 5,039. This is hardly a reason for "the addition of new classrooms." It's certainly not a reason for an "increase of available parking spaces." If any additional spaces were needed, the fees currently charged for parking should be used for this expense.

The Educational Master Plan of the college (available on the web site) under the title of "possible threats to Gavilan", states the following:

"Decentralization or extending resources away from the college (to the Hollister and Morgan Hill sites) will drain instructional and support services, resulting in a lack of direction and an excess of classroom space on the main campus."

And yet, they want to use this bond issue for "acquiring, constructing, equipping classrooms, buildings, libraries, and sites" for sites in San Benito and Morgan Hill. Plus, they've just moved into the new Morgan Hill Community Center, while still paying rent on the old vacated facility in Morgan Hill. This is serious mismanagement.

Finally, with the unemployment rate officially at 8.4%, this bond issue is going to hit working people who are struggling to make ends meet. Both renters and homeowners will feel the tax increase if this bond issue passes.

Vote NO on E.

For further information, visit: www.VoteNoOnE.us.