Consultants told the council on Dec. 16 that a statistically valid, likely‑voter survey showed 55% support for a prospective general‑purpose sales tax measure in current testing — a level that could support placing a measure on a future ballot if the city pursues organized outreach and education.

Adam Przybylski of Przybylski Research presented results from a 400‑respondent likely‑voter sample and said the top issues for respondents were homelessness, and streets and sidewalks. He said satisfaction with city services overall measured about 57% and that messages emphasizing that the revenue would stay local and that the measure would have oversight tended to increase support. Outreach consultant William Berry warned that survey respondents who had time to hear a 10–15 minute explanation on the phone are different from voters in real‑world settings and that a successful ballot effort would require an active education campaign.

Przybylski said the poll tested a range of messages and that positive frames — for example, describing specific uses and local oversight — had larger effects than many negative counterarguments. He noted turnout matters: the testing was conducted for a gubernatorial election cycle, which typically has different turnout demographics than a presidential year. He also noted that likely‑voter samples differ from the city’s full population and recommended targeted outreach to under‑represented voter groups.

City staff told council this presentation is a final check before investing time and resources in a formal public education campaign; staff asked for direction whether to proceed with outreach and community engagement after the new year. Several council members signaled support for moving ahead with education and outreach, while one asked to discuss the matter at the January retreat to ensure full council participation.

What happens next: Council indicated a majority present was comfortable initiating outreach and education for a potential measure; staff will begin planning immediate next steps if the full council confirms the direction at the January retreat.