EDITORIAL

It was a mixed vote Tuesday as Huntington Beach voters finally and

wisely approved a bond measure that will revamp city school district

campuses, but also canceled themselves out in doing a little something to

improve city streets and sewers.

The good news is the passage of Measure DD, the school bond. After

failing last year to give money to fix up Huntington Beach City School

District campuses, voters now have OKd $30 million that will go to great

lengths in fixing our crumbling schools, whether it be roofs, heating

systems or fire alarms. It was much needed and well-deserved. Those who

worked for months and, really, years, should feel both a sense of relief

and pride in getting their job done. Now, it will be up to the district

to ensure the money is spent wisely.

Voters were far less decisive when it came to setting aside money for

improving streets and sewers. While they approved Measure GG, which would

put power plant utility taxes in an infrastructure fund, they voted down

the other part of the equation, Measure HH, which would have actually

provided those funds by repealing a tax exclusion for AES Huntington

Beach. If voters were confused by the twin measures, it is too bad as our

streets won’t be getting the same treatment as our city schools will be.

The saving grace is that voters OKd Measure FF, which creates that

infrastructure fund and at least sets aside some general fund money for

road improvements. We trust it is a step toward clear improvement of

streets, but are disappointed that the work seemingly will not come as

fast as it is needed.