Measure E and Measure M: What are they and how can they help FUSD?

1–2 minutes

Measure E and Measure M are two FUSD general obligation bonds that have and can continue to help district schools.

Staff Writer

Updating technology, fixing and replacing leaky roofs, and upgrading electrical wiring to measure up to current safety codes have all been possible with $650 million in funding from Measure E. Measure E is a general obligation bond that allows the Fremont Unified School District to fund various projects like the renovations of classrooms and schools. The bond was approved by Fremont voters on June 3, 2014, with a 61.8% “Yes” vote, and has allowed FUSD to update some of its schools that are in desperate need of repair, modernization, and expansion. Additionally, the bond’s funds have also been used to build new facilities and classrooms that would be necessary, especially for the middle school transition project.

According to the Facilities page on FUSD’s website, the district “identified $2.6 billion of facility improvement and construction” through a comprehensive facilities needs assessment in 2024. This resulted in a new general obligation bond initiative, Measure M, which has been placed on the November 2024 ballot.

For a bond measure to pass in California, including Measure M, at least 55% of voters who cast a vote on this measure need to vote “Yes.” Furthermore, even though there is $2.6 billion of facility improvement and construction needed, Measure M will only provide $919 million as stated on the Facilities page on FUSD’s website.

If this bond is approved by voters on November 5, the $919 million can be used for solar panel installations, new kitchen and child nutrition facilities, and to replace and improve buildings in all six high schools in FUSD. According to the law, these funds cannot also be used to pay teacher or administrator salaries.

As Measure E continues to stand, voters have the opportunity to also determine the future of Measure M and whether it will be used to upgrade aging facilities, accommodate more students, or construct new buildings.

The Measure E general obligation bond funds for the construction of new buildings at a school in the Fremont Unified School District. (Photo Credit: FUSD Website)