Schools

School Board Looks to Sales Tax

Hermosa Beach Board of Education decides to send a letter to the city, requesting deliberation on a possible sales tax increase to benefit schools.

Following months of discussion regarding the financial future of Hermosa Beach public schools, the on Wednesday took the first step in a decision that could raise more funds for the .

The school board voted 3-1 to request that the city look into the legality of possibly putting a , which would benefit the district, up for a residential vote.

If it can be done, the possible sales-and-use tax measure would require a vote by the City Council and then the support of Hermosa Beach voters.

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Board member Lisa Claypoole, who has been in support of pursuing a , cast the dissenting vote. Board member Jack Burns was absent at the meeting.

"There is some confusion in the state as to the legality of sales tax measures," said Superintendent Bruce Newlin at the board meeting.

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He mentioned that increase in which the city and school district evenly share the proceeds. But for Hermosa Beach, all of the revenue from a proposed 1 percent increase in the city’s sales tax would benefit the school district.

Newlin said that the city attorney could address questions regarding the legality of proceeds benefiting solely Hermosa schools.

Would you support a higher sales tax to help the Hermosa Beach school district?


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