In June of 2009, voters within the South Pasadena Unified School District boundary approved Measure S by 67.6%. Measure S authorized the district to levy a special parcel tax upon parcels within district boundaries for four years beginning with 2009-10. The final levy under the 2009 voter measure was 2012-13. In March of 2013, the district asked voters to approve a renewed Measure S authorizing the tax to be levied for another five years. The renewal of Measure S was approved by 72.77%.

 

In February 2018, South Pasadena voters approved a seven-year extension through the 2024-25 year.  In May 2023, South Pasadena voters once again approved a seven-year extension through the 2031-32 year, by an 82.61% overwhelming majority. The purpose of the parcel tax is to augment the less-than sufficient funds provided by the state and protect the quality of education in South Pasadena.

 

The revenues can only be applied for the purposes of preserving and maintaining quality education and academic programs, retaining teachers, providing small class sizes, funding district library, media, visual and performing arts programs, and reduce layoffs of teachers, teacher aides, librarians, counselors, and other district personnel. 

 

The first year of the 2018 parcel tax is levied at $386 per parcel for all parcels and has an annual 3% inflator included. The first year of the 2023 parcel tax is the 2025-2026 year and is estimated to be $474.  Under the Measure S tax formula, there is no distinction between commercial, industrial, residential, developed, or undeveloped property. 

 

Measure S allows for a senior citizen exemption from the parcel tax if the following conditions are met:

 

1.) Granted on a single parcel (only one per owner)

2.) Must be owned by a senior (not simply lived in or rented)

3.) The owner must be 65 years or older

4.) The owner must occupy the parcel as the principal residence

5.) Must apply for the exemption

 

An exemption may also be granted for individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income for disability regardless of age who meet conditions 1,2,4, and 5 above. 

 

If you would like to apply for the senior exemption the window to submit the application is January 1 through June 30 for the upcoming tax year. The form is accessible by utilizing the link below or can be obtained from the District Business Office from January 1 through June 30. 

 

In addition to the completed application, the applicant must provide the following:

 

1) Current Drivers license/ ID reflecting property address

2) Current Year property tax bill

3) A current utility bill, insurance policy, or other similar document indicating and establishing current residence.  (Remit slip must be included). 

 

For questions regarding the application process or to submit your application, please contact Irene Bugarin at (626) 441- 5810 Ext. 1110, via email [email protected].