FAIRFIELD, Calif. July 29, 2015 — The Solano Community College District today delivered a response to 2014-15 Solano County civil grand jury reports, detailing how ballot language and management of Bond Measure Q, approved in 2012, fulfills voter expectations in terms of accountability, transparency and purpose of expenditures.

In its response, the Solano Community College District’s Board of Trustees “strongly disagrees” with the findings in the civil grand jury reports and has refuted the civil grand jury findings with incontrovertible evidence. For example, Proposition 39 does not require master plans, only that the ballot language describe how bond monies will be spent. The District maintains that the bond language clearly described the type and nature of projects for Measure Q. Furthermore, although not required, the District does note that master plans were in fact available to the public before the election. The response also describes how the District has consistently and regularly interacted with committee members by sharing information, conducting trainings and providing administrative support — all in accordance with the State of California’s Education Code.

The sequence of events leading up the decision to place Measure Q on the ballot was deliberate, open to the public and in compliance with Proposition 39. The civil grand jury itself had to acknowledge that it found no evidence of criminal misconduct by the District.

“We’re thankful for the opportunity to clear the record through the civil grand jury process,” said Interim District Superintendent Stan Arterberry. “This adds another layer of transparency for Solano County voters, who deserve to know the full story behind Bond Measure Q, and how it is achieving the objectives clearly laid out before the election.”

The response highlights that ongoing projects funded by Measure Q are consistent with the promise in the ballot language to improve the district’s ability to serve students and maintain a solid footing for future growth. These projects include the Vacaville Biotechnology & Science Technology Engineering and Math project will house one of only 15 four-year degree programs offered by community colleges in California. Other projects will house a revamped automotive program that will train students in green automobile technology repair and the Fairfield Veteran’s Center, expanding access by students, military, disabled veterans to affordable education.

“The district welcomes the civil grand jury’s scrutiny, but in this case the facts speak for themselves, and the central fact is that the Solano Community College District is clearly implementing the will of Solano County voters,” said A. Marie Young, President of the Solano Community College District Board of Trustees. “Looking ahead, Measure Q is making exciting improvements that will give students of all types an edge in the 21st Century job market by transforming their lives for success.”