WHITTIER – Rio Hondo College’s Board of Trustees has proclaimed support for a statewide ballot measure that would generate $90 million for Rio Hondo College remodeling and renovation projects.

Prop. 51 on the Nov. 8 statewide ballot would generate $7 billion to augment local funding of capital projects at K-12 schools and $2 billion for community colleges, which project $29.2 billion in unmet facility needs through 2020-21.

Rio Hondo leaders estimate College facilities needs at $120 million, including those that would qualify for state matching funds.

“Prop. 51 would have a definite and lasting effect on the ability of Rio Hondo College to provide the best possible facilities for our students,” Board President Mary Ann Pacheco said. “With these funds, we would be able to ensure our students have the tools they need for success.”

The Board of Trustees also adopted a resolution supporting Prop. 55, which would extend for 12 years a temporary income tax on wealthy residents previously adopted as Prop. 30 in 2012. Prop. 55 dedicates 89 percent of proceeds to K-12 education and 11 percent to community colleges.

Rio Hondo leaders estimate that Prop. 30 generates about $10 million a year for the College. Prop. 55 would generate about $7 million annually because the measure drops a temporary sales tax hike included in Prop. 30.

“Prop. 55 would ensure California’s schools and community colleges have the resources they need to provide outstanding academic programs,” Pacheco said.

Rio Hondo College is listed among the 2016 Top 25 Community Colleges for Hispanics by Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education Magazine for helping students attain degrees. The College offers 21 associate degrees that guarantee admission to California State University campuses, 51 associate of arts or associate of science degrees, and 65 certificate programs.

The College offers a Bachelor of Science degree in automotive technology, the only degree of its kind at a community college in Southern California. Rio Hondo College is offering the major as part of a historic state initiative.

The College is also home to nationally recognized programs in nursing, firefighting and police services.