General (3)
Public Comment
From:Eduardo Garcia <egarcia@latinocf.org>
Sent:Tuesday, October 6, 2020 3:45 PM
To:Public Comment
Cc:Christian Arana
Subject:Public comment: In support of Schools and Communities First
Attachments:AnaheimCCProp15.pdf
October 6, 2020
Anaheim City Council
200 S Anaheim Blvd.
Anaheim, CA 92805
Dear Anaheim City Council:
On behalf of the Latino Community Foundation, I write in support of the Schools and Communities First initiative, or
Proposition 15 as it will appear on the General Election ballot. Prop 15 is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to change the
way our schools and communities are funded by ensuring that corporations with large industrial properties pay their fair
share in taxes.
It is estimated that the City of Anaheim will reclaim more than $20 million if California voters approve the initiative. That
would mean more funds for local services, including housing and homelessness prevention services, job training, youth
programs, and domestic violence shelters. It would also improve quality of life services, from libraries to street and
sidewalk repair, and public parks maintenance. These dollars are critical as the city works to recover from its $100 million
pandemic-induced budget shortfall.
The passage of Prop 15 would also provide a boost in funding for Anaheim’s K-12 public schools. For example, the
Anaheim Union High School District would reclaim $22 million annually, which would provide the district with
additional funds for teachers, classroom aides, books, computers, and supplies for in-person and distance learning.
According to the most recent data, 70 percent of AUHSD students participate in the free and reduced lunch program.
These resources would also provide breakfast and lunch for millions of students who would otherwise go hungry.
I respectfully ask that you support Proposition 15 to ensure that Anaheim’s students and residents can access well-
funded schools and community services. This will help Anaheim achieve an equitable and speedy recovery from the
COVID-19 health and economic crisis.
LCF is the premier statewide foundation focused on unleashing the civic and economic power of Latinos in California.
The foundation has the largest network of Latino philanthropists in the country and has invested $10 million to build
Latino civic and political power and leadership in the state.
Sincerely,
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Eduardo García
Senior Policy Fellow
Latino Community Foundation
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