Measure C | californiachoices.org

My vote

Would generate funding that cannot be seized by the State, but stays in Gilroy and is dedicated to public safety (police, fire and ambulance) services and public safety infrastructure projects, shall Gilroy enact a 0.25 percent (one-quarter of one percent) transactions and use tax; and include a citizen oversight committee and annual audits for the tax. Measure C requires at least 2/3 of voters approving to pass.

Fiscal Impact: The proposed ballot measure would bring local sales tax up to 9.375%, with exceptions for groceries and prescription drugs. The measure could add between $4.1 and $4.7 million every year and would cost the city an additional fee from the state to implement which could range from around $20,000 to a maximum of $175,000, and would be determined if the measure passed.

Next Santa Clara County Measure: Measure J

See Endorsements for Measure C

Details

Pro/Con

Pro:

Supporters argue that Gilroy has grappled with a need for additional staffing and infrastructure funding for years. While the special tax would not fully fund the needs staff have identified within the police and fire departments, it would go a long way toward alleviating the city’s growing pains. (Source)

A YES vote on this measure means that you want to implement the special transaction and use tax to fund public safety services.

Con:

Opponents argue that this tax would cost local businesses up to $5,000 a year. They emphasize that a 2014 ballot measure raising the transaction and use tax for this purpose failed.

A NO vote on this measure means that you oppose the special transaction and use tax to fund public safety services.

In Depth

To improve 911 emergency response; fix streets to reduce potholes and provide safer roads and routes for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists; upgrade storm drains/pipes to prevent flooding/sinkholes; and renovate/replace recreation, library and other community facilities; shall the City of Santa Clara's measure authorizing $400,000,000 in bonds, funded by levying an estimated $19 per $100,000 of assessed value while bonds are outstanding, generating approximately $21,674,000 annually, with annual audits and citizen oversight of spending, be adopted?

The measure will bring local sales tax up to 9.375%, with exceptions for groceries and prescription drugs. The measure could add between $4.1 and $4.7 million every year and would cost the city an additional fee from the state to implement which could range from around $20,000 to a maximum of $175,000, and would be determined if the measure passed.

Source: City of Gilroy Qualified Measures

Voter Resources

Voter Resources: City of Gilroy Elections