Measure G committee names audit subcommittee, hears December 31 financial report; public calls for clearer transparency ahead of 2030 renewal

The City of Salinas Measure G Oversight Committee on Jan. 16 appointed a three-person subcommittee to review the city's 2024 independent audit and heard a detailed, unaudited financial report as of Dec. 31, 2024. Public speakers urged the committee to improve outreach and transparency ahead of Measure G's expiration in 2030.

Under consideration item 24-712, the committee nominated and voted to appoint a subcommittee to examine the independent external audit report and return findings and recommendations to the Measure G committee for presentation to the City Council. The committee directed staff to schedule subcommittee meetings so the committee's review can be completed in time for a May 30 report to the council. The motion to appoint the subcommittee was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote.

Acting Assistant Finance Director A. Pedrosa presented the Measure G quarter 2 (as of Dec. 31, 2024) financial report and stressed that the numbers were unaudited. Key figures in the staff presentation and committee discussion included:

- Transactions and use tax: 34% of the year-to-date benchmark (July through October collections); benchmark for four of 12 months is 33%, and November receipts were expected in the coming days. - Operating spending (before transfers):…