Taxpayers have shown repeatedly that they are willing to approve bonds for a good cause. Even the dysfunctional Los Angeles Unified School District was able, just four years ago, to pass a record setting bond with a two-thirds vote. However, districts are taking advantage of the fact that bonds are now so much easier to pass. The community college district in Los Angeles asked property owners to pay higher taxes for projects like sports stadiums, swimming pools and a simulated driving range where students can work on their golf swing. These projects would not have been included in the bond unless district officials were confident that the new 55 percent requirement virtually guaranteed passage.
Newspapers can be another problem for taxpayers.
While editors at some papers may be sympathetic to the taxpayers cause, education writers are almost universally hostile. Because they constantly talk to teachers and administrators. In a short time, these reporters tend to adopt the values and perspective of those they cover. Their stories will tend to present the bond in a favorable light. These bonds can be defeated if opponents are willing to work, but it will take hard work.