Measure S is a $135 million bond that would be used for a variety of building projects at SMC. It would also be used to purchase or develop properties and public amenities in Santa Monica and Malibu.
Our biggest problem with the proposal is that it was introduced to the community only four months ago and then approved with little public input. The first proposal was a $175 million bond. When the SMC Board of Trustees voted against putting it on the ballot, the bond was reduced by $40 million. The board approved that proposal within days of voting down the first one, and there was virtually no public notice about the meeting.
We also have reservations about tax hikes in general. The fact that SMC just passed a $160 million bond measure for facilities in 2002 makes us seriously doubt that now is the time to give the college more money for more facilities. Residents already are paying for several bonds and tax hikes on a variety of programs that were approved in the past several years.
Measure S could provide Santa Monica and the college with some sound opportunities, including acquiring more open space, a childcare facility and a new performing arts theater. But the problem is we don’t know specifically how Santa Monica taxpayers would benefit. The city of Santa Monica and SMC have yet to come to an agreement, which, in our opinion, should be sealed before we give any money to anyone.
SMC is facing serious financial constraints. As a result, the college has had to slash programs and staff. What good are new facilities if there is an inadequate amount of teachers and student programs?
Also, SMC has thrown its weight around in the community for a long time, straining its relationships with City Hall and residents. The public is wary of SMC’s size and its impacts. We have a message to SMC: Be nice to your neighbors. We hope, too, City Hall will work with SMC to mend the faltering relationship.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on October 28, 2004. Read the original PDF.