Colleges eye bond measure

“Our need is much greater than available funding,” Moreno said.

At a study session in November, the board received an update on its capital improvement needs, much of which include addressing outdated buildings, establishing student housing and making facilities equitable. 

Moreno noted that this is not a proposed project list to advocate for public financing — though such a request may come in 2026. 

At Cañada College, there is an identified $92 million worth in prioritized improvements. Health and safety regulations, compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and addressing degrading systems need to be completed at the theater. There is also a request for a more walkable campus considering its topography. 

Around $255 million is identified for improvements at College of San Mateo at four targeted buildings. Health and safety upgrades must be made to the campuses’ gymnasium and its facilities maintenance center. The campus’ library was also identified as needing some slight improvements to correct ADA deficiencies, and the East Hall could use updating. 

At Skyline College, a $290 million price tag is estimated. The performing arts center has foundational issues in need of addressing and the campus’ library is also in need of updating. A significant cost will be going toward the new kinesiology and dance building. 

“It would be very difficult for me to support any measure that does not include an athletic center and kinesiology building at Skyline College,” board President Mike Guingona said. 

At all three campuses, upgrades to fiber, renewable energy technology and wayfinding must be completed, in addition to scheduled maintenance and the plans for new student housing. These items are estimated to cost around $406 million.  

These priorities will require the district to strategically source funds, especially considering the tightening state budget, Moreno said. Still, she said the district can likely account for approximately $150 million from the state, which requires the district to match the dollar amount. 

For the short term, the district has developed a $55 million "bridge fund” to fill any gaps in state funding the district may expect, and the board has been notified of potential private financing options of up to $100 million. 

Mid-term financing efforts will possibly include another general obligation bond potentially for the 2026 ballot, Moreno said. 

With the capital improvements needed in mind, the Board of Trustees approved a contract with consultant Team CivX to poll the possible success of a future bond measure, which will likely be conducted in September. 

Based on the consultant’s findings, a bond measure may be recommended to be placed on the spring or fall ballot in 2026. 

Over the past 20 years, county voters have supported the district by passing three general obligation bond measures — most recently the $388 million Measure H bond in 2014, which is nearing exhaustion. These bonds helped complete approximately 60% of the district’s identified needs, according to a staff report. 

Moreno said the district’s long-term strategy is to eventually create a self-funded capital improvement project program to stabilize and avoid the need for public financing.