RCCD Board of Trustees Votes to Place Local Measure on the November Ballot

08/12/2024

Following extensive community engagement and independent surveys, the Riverside Community College District Board of Trustees voted Tuesday to place the Riverside Community College District Career Preparation, Affordable Higher Education Measure on the November 5, 2024, ballot for voter consideration.

If approved, the measure would provide local funds to improve and expand the infrastructure and facilities of the colleges. This would increase the availability of career education programs and enhance partnerships with regional employers, helping to ensure that students are well-prepared for jobs and career opportunities in alignment with the region's evolving economy. The measure also addresses campus safety concerns, classroom repairs and expansion, asbestos abatement, and the removal of mold and lead paint. Additionally, it aims to upgrade technology, electrical wiring, gas and sewer lines, fix leaky roofs, and improve earthquake safety.

“Riverside City College, Moreno Valley College, and Norco College provide essential job training and workforce preparation for students and veterans at a time when the cost to attend California's public universities has risen to at least six times that of attending a California community college,” said Wolde-Ab Isaac, Ph.D., chancellor. “Local investment is needed to maintain, expand, and improve the facilities required to offer low-cost, high-quality education and job training programs. This investment is crucial for local police officers, firefighters, and paramedics who rely on the community colleges to keep training affordable. Many of this District’s students are preparing for careers in public safety, healthcare, and other in-demand fields that are vital to our communities. These community colleges offer more than 200 programs of study, including social work, teaching, advanced technology, engineering, construction, and other trades, all without generating crushing student debt that could impede the success of our graduates.”

“We are so grateful for our local communities that value the high-quality, affordable education and career training we offer,” said Jose Alcala, president of the Board of Trustees. “Our vision and mission are to continue increasing opportunities for local students to earn college credits, certifications, and job skills at a reasonable price, and then either transfer to four-year universities or begin rewarding careers. Our local communities value the high-quality, affordable education and job training programs our colleges provide, and I am confident they will continue to support the colleges.”