Los Angeles Schools Wants Some Of New Voter-approved Bond Money
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Los Angeles Schools Seek Share of New Voter-Approved Bond Funds
Overview
Los Angeles schools have embarked on $20 billion worth of construction and renovation projects, but officials anticipate a funding gap from existing sources. They are turning to the state legislature for assistance.
Budget Shortfall
Guy Mehula, the chief facilities executive for Los Angeles schools, stated that nearly $1.6 billion in funding remains unaccounted for. While there is enough money to complete ongoing projects, additional funding is needed for future developments planned for 2009 and 2010.
State Funding Challenges
Los Angeles schools face difficulties with state funding guidelines, which are based on outdated enrollment trends. As enrollment is expected to drop, substantial state construction funding has become inaccessible. Although Los Angeles schools argue that the guidelines are unfair, state officials believe schools should have acted during their growth phase. Kathy Hicks from the state Office of Public School Construction indicated that funding would have been available if projects were ready then.
New Bonds and Funding Opportunities
In November 2006, voters approved $43 billion in bonds. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger plans to propose additional bonds totaling $29 billion for voter approval in 2008 and 2010, plus $14 billion in bonds that do not require voter consent.
The governor’s Strategic Growth Plan includes a $211 billion investment in state infrastructure over the next decade, with nearly $12 billion earmarked for kindergarten through 12th-grade education in 2008 and 2010. Los Angeles schools are keen on securing a share of these funds.
Distribution and Eligibility
The State Allocation Board, responsible for distributing funds to school districts, is addressing a $318 million backlog of projects previously approved before funding ran out. Once the board allocates new bond funds, eligible projects in this backlog will be prioritized. Future approvals will occur on a first-come, first-served basis, with the board typically sanctioning $102 million for new construction and $83 million for renovation projects monthly, according to Hicks.
Unfortunately, Los Angeles schools currently do not qualify for additional funding under the existing guidelines. They hope the legislature will adjust school construction funding policies to address their needs for 2009 and 2010.
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