Council certifies Measure YM results; introduces ordinance to implement and delays two 0.25% sales tax increases until 2028–2029

The Lancaster City Council certified the results of the Nov. 5, 2024 special election and introduced an ordinance to implement Measure YM while delaying two authorized sales‑tax increases.

The council adopted a resolution reciting the election facts and certifying results: 56,637 valid ballots were cast; 26,705 votes were in favor and 24,468 were opposed. The presenter said Measure YM passed with 52.19 percent of the vote. The certification resolution (Resolution No. 24‑71) passed by voice vote with four yes votes and the mayor absent.

The council also considered MB3, introducing ordinance No. 1122 to implement and collect reduced transaction and use taxes authorized by AB 2443 and Measure YM and adopting a related resolution (24‑72) to delay two scheduled quarter‑percent increases. A staff presenter explained that the city is adopting only the amount authorized by voters but deferring two 0.25 percentage‑point increases until Jan. 1, 2028 (first 0.25%) and Jan. 1, 2029 (second 0.25%). The presenter advised the council that the resolution text contained a typographical error in sections 2 and 3 that should read 0.25%; the correction was included in the motion.

Council members moved and seconded the combined action to introduce ordinance 1122 and adopt resolution 24‑72 (with the 0.25% correction). The motion passed 4–0 with the mayor absent.

What was not decided: The council introduced the implementation ordinance and adopted the corrective resolution; the transcript does not show final collection schedules or fee‑setting details beyond the stated deferral dates.