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Town halls and poll show Measure J extension has public backing; staff to run follow-up survey
Summary
City staff told the council town halls and a March–April poll of about 1,000 likely voters showed public support for a half‑cent sales tax (Measure J) that currently generates over $13 million and funds 55 general‑fund positions; staff recommended a follow-up poll and a final recommendation by Aug. 6 to meet election deadlines.
City manager Graham Mitchell briefed the council on four town hall meetings and earlier polling about Measure J, the city’s half‑cent sales tax that sunsets in 2028. Mitchell said a March–April survey of nearly 1,000 likely voters and qualitative town‑hall feedback gave staff a clearer sense of priorities and how residents weigh tradeoffs.
Mitchell and finance staff explained Measure J generates more than $13 million annually — roughly 15% of the city’s general fund — and that the general fund currently supports about 55 positions that would be affected if the measure sunsets, including roughly 30 positions in police and nine positions in fire. Town‑hall participants favored protecting public‑safety services, supported some sunset and oversight provisions, and suggested an advisory vote to inform council decisions.
Staff recommended a targeted follow‑up poll, additional outreach (including an upcoming meeting with an immigrant‑community group) and production of a public video to explain the tradeoffs; with that work complete staff expects to present a recommendation at a special council meeting on Aug. 6 if the council wants to meet the registrar’s Aug. 9 ballot deadline.
