Ojai Voters Reject Parcel Tax for Schools; Some Layoffs Expected
Ojai voters soundly defeated a school tax that would have added $150 to the annual tax bill of property owners for the next five years.
In unofficial returns Wednesday, the parcel tax was supported by 46% of those who voted Tuesday, far below the 67% needed for approval.
School officials said the tax was needed to keep class sizes small at the lowest grade levels, to save music programs and to pay teachers.
Opponents said the tax was unfair to homeowners with multiple parcels and called on school leaders to make cuts within existing revenue.
Layoff notices are expected to go out to affected employees by next Tuesday.
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