Business Group Backs Tax to Aid Schools

The Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce has endorsed a proposed parcel tax to help the Beverly Hills Unified School District.

The decision by the chamber’s 23-member board came after surveying members and meeting with residents and local groups, said Charles Reilly, president of the organization.

“It was a clear consensus . . . that approval of the proposed parcel tax was in the best interest of the schools, the residents and the business community . . . and that it was incumbent upon the chamber to take a leadership role,” Reilly said.

The tax, which will go to the voters in the June 5 election, provides for taxes ranging from $250 to $750 a year on parcels of land. It requires a two-thirds majority to pass.