Measure T would let Lodi Unified sell up to $195 million in general obligation bonds. The ballot question names repairs to leaky roofs, plumbing, deteriorating electrical and gas lines, heating and air conditioning, along with school security and career-training and college-preparation classrooms. The full project list also covers replacing aging portable classrooms with permanent buildings; renovating restrooms, kitchens and early-learning classrooms; athletic fields and playgrounds; parking lots and drop-off areas; technology; energy upgrades; and buying land and building new schools as needed. It needs at least 55% of the votes cast.
The ballot question says the bonds would come "WITH NO ESTIMATED INCREASE IN CURRENT TAX RATES," with average annual levies below $22 per $100,000 of assessed value, about $11.4 million a year. In its required tax rate statement, the district estimates an average rate of $21.13 per $100,000, a peak of $30.87 first reached in 2042-43, a last collection year of 2060-61, and $387,934,767 in principal and interest if all the bonds are sold. The district says it would sell the bonds in several series as a "bond extension," timed so that the rate in any year is not projected to rise above the current one. Voters approved earlier Lodi Unified bonds in 2002 and 2016; their combined rate in 2025-26 was $54.50 per $100,000. The rates apply to assessed value, not market value, and the statement says its figures are estimates that do not bind the district.
San Joaquin County Counsel's impartial analysis says bond money could not pay teacher or administrator salaries or other operating costs. The measure requires an independent citizens' oversight committee, annual independent performance and financial audits, and a separate account for the money. The analysis also says some projects may assume state matching funds that depend on the Legislature or a statewide bond, so approval does not guarantee every listed project is funded.
The ballot argument in favor is signed by District Attorney Ron Freitas, Lodi Unified board member Joe Nava, Lodi Unified Teacher of the Year Julie Carniglia, Superintendent Neil Young and Assemblyman Heath Flora. It argues that repairs cost less now than later and points to the audit and oversight requirements.