Merced’s Measure O bond measure gaining approval, early election results show

In the second release of results on Tuesday, Measure O, an $80 million bond measure which would serve to upgrade the 18 schools in the Merced City School District was gaining its way toward approval. The measure had received 5,844 votes or 62% of the 9,430 total votes counted, according to the Merced County Elections Office.

The Measure O bond requires 55% voter approval to pass.

According to a Long Range Facilities Master Plan released by the district in March, 30% of district’s elementary classrooms comprise of portable construction. Brian Behn, director of facilities of the district, the bond measure would be leveraged against sate funds for modernization projects. If passed, the district would be able to leverage Measure O funds against state funds which could result in the state matching the district’s contributions by a 150% for eligible projects.

“We’re actually investing in the community,” Behn said. “We’re investing in community development and better neighborhoods and just a lot more resources here for everybody in town.”

This story was originally published November 5, 2024 at 9:25 PM.