Community college officials say students will get better quality education thanks to Measure C

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The State Center Community College District said its students are about to receive a better quality of education, thanks to voters who ruled in favor of Measure C.

Sixty-five percent of voters Tuesday said yes to Measure C-- a $485 million bond that will raise taxes to close to $20 for every home that's assessed property value is $100,000.

State Center Community College District Chancellor Dr. Paul Parnell said the money will go towards improving student success.

"This is an opportunity of a lifetime to build the kind of facilities in the community our students deserve."

Parnell oversees 50,000 students who attend his schools in Fresno, Reedley, Madera, Oakhurst, and Clovis.

The bond measure will get rid of modular classrooms in Oakhurst by adding permanent buildings. It will also update the career and technical education facility in Madera and expand the parking lot at Fresno City College.

"We have 27,00 students here at Fresno City College and when they all show up there's not a place to park," said Parnell.

Students like Ellis Parley and Srishti Jakhar said that happens pretty much every day during the fall and spring semesters.

"You buy your parking pass and expect to get a parking spot, but the first few days up until mid-semester it's congested," said Parley.

"I've been late to class several times just to find parking and the teachers drop you off if you're late," said Jakhar.

Fresno City College would also get a new math and science building, and all campuses will be updated to make them more handicap accessible.

Parnell now has to present his draft plan to the board. He hopes construction on the first project will start next year.