Background

TBWB helped the Belmont-Redwood Shores School District (BRSSD) pass a parcel tax in 2004 on the district’s third attempt, as well as a bond measure in 2005. BRSSD comprises four different cities, and effective community outreach to all voters is very challenging. The community is also very sensitive to tax measures, making 67% approval difficult.

Due to the impending state budget cuts, the district called TBWB in May 2008 to explore the feasibility of a second parcel tax measure.

What We Did

With a long history in the school district, TBWB worked with the new superintendent, school board members, district staff, teachers and parent-leaders to create a survey and analyze the feasibility of a second parcel tax to retain teachers and maintain academic programs.

With survey results indicating widespread favorability for the measure, TBWB worked with the district to craft a public information and outreach strategy, including winning ballot measure language, press releases and a district-wide informational mailer to inform the public and solicit feedback.

Later, under a separate contract, TBWB guided the privately-funded committee of parents and teachers to victory at the ballot box.