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Council moves to place Measure G extension on November ballot amid calls for clearer oversight
Summary
Staff and a consultant presented a 400-sample poll showing majority support to extend the city's Measure G sales-tax funding; after lengthy public comment urging stronger transparency and a sunset, the council directed staff to return with ballot language and oversight options and voted to proceed with placing the measure on the November 3, 2026 ballot.
City consultants told the council a statistically appropriate 400-person survey of likely Salinas voters shows a majority — roughly 61% — would support renewing Measure G, the city's existing one-cent sales-tax allocation, if presented as a ballot measure in November 2026.
William Berry of Probolski/ProResearch summarized methodology and message-testing results for the council, noting Spanish-language outreach and that support narrows when voters receive more detailed negative messages. The presentation also highlighted resident priorities (streets and sidewalks, addressing homelessness) that align with Measure G spending categories.
During public comment and council questioning, residents and several councilmembers urged greater transparency, a clearly defined oversight structure and consideration of a sunset clause or stricter reporting requirements. Multiple speakers said support eroded when more specific uses and accountability details were introduced.
The council instructed staff to bring back a resolution and recommended ballot language, plus options for oversight (such as committee consolidation or additional reporting) and potential sunset timelines. Council approved a motion to pursue placement of the Measure G extension on the November 3, 2026 ballot.
Council members said they would require public education and a clear description of how funds would be tracked if the measure goes before voters. Staff said they would return with formal draft language, oversight options and a recommended outreach plan.
