2026 General Obligation Bond
Pima Community College seeks voter approval for authorization to issue $250 million in General Obligation Bond (“GO Bond”) debt on the November 3, 2026, ballot. It has been more than 30 years since the College last sought taxpayer debt, and the funds would modernize aging facilities and expand workforce training for high-demand, high-wage careers.
Why does PCC Need to Issue GO Bond Debt?
Since state funding for PCC’s capital needs ceased in 2009 and regular operational funding was reduced to zero in 2015, there has been a cumulative loss of $221 million in capital and operating aid. Having exhausted revenue bonds and surplus reserves, PCC must now secure funding to:
- Expand training capacity for critical programs, including Information Technology, First Responders, and the College’s new baccalaureate program in Teacher Education.
- Modernize infrastructure dating back to the 1970s.
- Save Taxpayer Dollars by refinancing existing debt, freeing up nearly $4 million annually for program support.
What projects would be funded by the bond?
PCC would invest in the following enhancement projects:
Center of Excellence in Public Safety & First Responders
Consolidate programs by construction of a new state-of-the-art facility for paramedics and first responders.
Est. Project Cost: $39,800,000
Safer Downtown Campus/Police Headquarters
Move the headquarters to the Downtown Campus to improve security and reduce response times.
Est. Project Cost: $29,000,000
Student Success and Support Centers Renovation
Create integrated, one-stop spaces for enrollment, advising, financial aid, and testing.
Est. Project Cost: $27,300,000
Modernizing and Expanding Academic Spaces
Move the current Center of Excellence from East Campus, renovate existing space at Desert Vista Campus, provide modern learning environments for students, expand capacity to train for high wage, high demand careers.
Est. Project Cost: $57,000,000
Updating and Improving Existing Infrastructure
Address deferred maintenance and known deficiencies, and update facilities and information technology infrastructure.
Est. Project Cost: $58,900,000
Refinancing Existing Revenue Bonds to Reduce Future Interest Payments
Lower the cost of existing debt and strengthen the College’s long-term financial stability & investment into student learning.
Est. Project Cost: $38,000,000
Additional FAQ's
Financial Impact
Oversight and Transparency
The bond will be subject to strict public oversight by:
- PCC Governing Board (elected), which authorized the initiative on March 4, 2026, will:
- Review and approve contracts and purchases exceeding $250,000 for contractors, equipment, and other items.
- Receive regular updates on progress during public meetings.
- PCC Governing Board’s Finance and Audit Committee, an independent committee of community members with financial or audit backgrounds, will:
- Receive standing reports on the expenditure of funds.
- The State Auditor General’s Office routinely audits and issues reports on the College’s financial statements, and internal controls and compliance procedures.
Election Details
All registered voters in Pima County will have the opportunity to vote on PCC’s bond project.
- October 5, 2026: Last day to register to vote.
- October 7, 2026: Early ballots mailed; early voting begins.
- November 3, 2026: Election Day.