Finance Advisory Committee hears Measure W revenue update and next steps for community center financing

City staff told the Cathedral City Finance Advisory Committee on March 23 that Measure W revenue is likely to fall short of the $5 million ceiling but should exceed the $4.5 million estimate, and presented early-year expenditures across the measure’s five spending pillars — roads, parks, recreation, fire and debt service for a future recreation facility.

The update was given during the committee’s regular meeting, where staff explained the city receives sales and use tax receipts two months in arrears. “We should achieve that 4.5 million, if not more,” a staff presenter said, while also cautioning that reaching the full $5 million would be “a stretch.” The committee unanimously approved routine minutes from its Sept. 22, 2025 meeting before moving into the presentation.

Why it matters: Measure W is the voter-approved local use tax dedicated to a set of city priorities. Early-year revenue and spending patterns influence whether the city will build reserves, proceed with a financed recreation facility or alter allocations among roads, parks and public safety.

Staff showed a two-pronged picture: modest shortfalls in year-to-date sales tax but higher use-tax receipts tied to large purchases, and a spending profile shaped by contracts and one-time capital costs. For roads, staff said completed 2025–26 work included grinding and slurry sealing in the Panorama neighborhood and a full reconstruction of…