The Tamalpais Union High School District is gearing up for a parcel tax renewal on the November ballot. Leaders hope this move will help fund Marin County schools as enrollment drops and property tax revenue softens.
A poll from late January shows a majority would support the renewal, but it’s still short of the two-thirds needed to pass. District officials are debating between two rates—$577 per year or $612—each with a 3% annual escalation.
Discover hand-picked hotels and vacation homes tailored for every traveler. Skip booking fees and secure your dream stay today with real-time availability!
Browse Accommodations Now
They want these funds to keep math, science, technology, engineering, and reading/writing programs strong across Marin, from Mill Valley to San Rafael and beyond. It’s a familiar debate, but the stakes feel high this time.
What the Nov. 3 parcel tax renewal would fund for Marin students
In towns like Mill Valley, Corte Madera, Larkspur, San Anselmo, and San Rafael, the measure could bring in about $21 million each year. That’s around one-sixth of the district’s $128.8 million operating budget.
The money would keep crucial academic programs going—math, science, technology, engineering, and reading and writing. Classrooms from Court Street to Hether Lane need these resources to keep up with changing standards and college expectations.
- Math, science, and STEM programs across Tamalpais Union High School District campuses
- Reading and writing instruction to support literacy across grades
- Career and college readiness initiatives aligned with Marin employers and community colleges
This estimated $21 million a year is a big deal for the district’s budget. The plan aims to protect and maybe even grow programs that attract students from places like Marinwood, Kentfield, Ross, and San Rafael.
Survey results and voter sentiment
The poll, run by consultant Bryan Godbe from Jan. 20–31, reached 695 likely voters out of 66,938 registered in Marin. There’s a margin of error of ±3.7%.
When asked the base question, 64.8% said they’d “definitely” or “probably” vote yes at the $577 rate. After hearing more about how the tax would be used, support for the $577 rate jumped to 70.2% favorable.
The $612 rate, which bakes in two years of 3% annual increases, got a similar 69% likely-yes response. Voters in places like San Rafael and Mill Valley seem to be paying close attention.
Financial picture and district challenges
Even with decent support, the measure still needs to clear the tough two-thirds bar. The district hopes the renewal, with its 3% annual escalation, will help stabilize programs as enrollment and tax revenues shift.
With an operating budget of about $128.8 million, the renewal’s expected $21 million per year is a vital chunk for keeping Marin’s high school academics afloat.
Local implications across Marin towns and how trustees are moving forward
People in Mill Valley and San Anselmo see the measure as more than just numbers. It affects school climate, teacher staffing, and after-school programs in real, everyday ways.
The district’s already dealing with drops in property tax revenue and enrollment. Officials have mapped out staffing cuts totaling $2.2 million—layoffs and reduced hours could hit if money gets tighter.
Trustees haven’t raised objections to a $577 measure for November. They’re leaning toward a conservative, steady funding base, which, honestly, makes sense in Marin’s competitive school scene.
Consultant Charles Heath urged the district to act soon and not wait until the last minute. He said they’d draft a final resolution after the June 2 elections, and then Godbe would run another poll to check voter sentiment.
If the board gives the green light, trustees would probably vote to put the measure on the ballot at the Aug. 4 meeting. That’s just in time for the Aug. 7 filing deadline for Marin County ballot measures.
Here is the source article for this story: Tam Union school district moves toward tax renewal pitch
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now
Cities and Towns in Marin County
Things to Do in Marin County
Places to Stay in Marin County
