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Hanford council votes to place TOT measure on June 2 primary ballot
Summary
The council directed staff to place a Transit Occupancy Tax (TOT) ballot measure on the June 2, 2026 primary ballot. Staff said the current 8% rate has been unchanged since 1985 and an increase could generate an estimated $375,000 annually for the general fund; council voted unanimously to pursue the June election.
Hanford finance staff briefed the city council on Feb. 3 about options to present a Transit Occupancy Tax (TOT) proposal to voters. The TOT is charged to overnight visitors (hotel guests and short-term rentals); staff said Hanford's rate has remained 8% since 1985.
Finance staff presented two calendar options: the June 2, 2026 primary election, which has higher placement cost per measure but earlier implementation and lower turnout, or the Nov. 3, 2026 general election, which has slightly lower placement cost and higher turnout but could face ballot competition. Staff estimated additional annual general-fund revenue at approximately $375,000 if the proposed change passes.
"TOT is paid by overnight visitors, not local residents," staff told council during the briefing.
Council discussed outreach and education and whether to hire external consultants; staff said outreach will be handled in-house and that Main Street and other partners can help amplify messages. After discussion about timing and outreach feasibility, council voted unanimously to place the TOT ballot measure on the June 2, 2026 primary ballot so an approved change would produce revenue sooner.
