Measure N could help bridge digital divide in Soledad

SOLEDAD, Calif. (KION) After a unanimous vote by the Soledad Unified School District Board of Trustees, schools are back on the ballot for the November 3rd election.

"We are all advocates for our children and we want to make sure that our kids are prepared for college or career," said Soledad Unified School District Board President, Javier Galvan.

Galvan said funds from Measure N would go a long way.

Soledad Unified School District is asking for $13.75 million in bonds. It would be used to purchase new technology, which is now a lifeline for schools during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"It's for our children and our teachers. They have older laptops. Also, we want better internet service. We're having a problem with a lot of children who didn't have internet service in some of the outlying communities," said Galvan.

Funds from Measure N would also be put toward building local rental housing for school staff. The district said this is an effort to keep teachers local and cut long drive times from out-of-town commutes.

"We want to retain our qualified educators. The better educators that we have, the better prepared our children are going to be," said Galvan.

Not everyone has been in favor of the idea. During the Presidential Primary Election back in March, it was put on the ballot as Measure E. 46% of voters turned it down and it failed.

If passed this time, residents can expect to be taxed three cents for every $100.

"If it's something good for the students then we need to pay," said Soledad resident, Esmeralda Gallo.

Measure N will need a 55% "yes" vote in order to pass.