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City staff outlines proposed 1% local sales tax; public raises wording and scope concerns
Summary
City staff explained a proposed general 1% local sales tax to appear on the Nov. 3, 2026 ballot and said revenue would support public safety, animal control, roads, parks and grant matches. Residents questioned vagueness of the draft language and what would be taxed; staff said the council will consider a formal resolution July 14 with more specific language.
City staff and council discussed a proposed local 1% general sales tax measure June 23 that the council may place on the November 3, 2026 ballot for voter consideration to support core services including public safety, animal control, road and drainage work, parks and active-transportation projects.
City Manager Kevin Cole told the council that staff and polling indicate public safety, roads, and animal control rank high as spending priorities and that the measure would allow the city to maintain service levels as costs rise while local and state funding streams remain constrained. “This is the council is putting this on the ballot for the voter to decide whether this is something that is good for Twentynine Palms,” Cole said during his presentation.
Members of the public raised questions during the public comment period about the proposed ballot language and the scope of taxable purchases. Resident Mary Alice told the council the draft language in materials she received was "very vague" and worried open-ended phrasing could permit future spending that voters did not expect. Staff explained the city is proposing a general sales tax (not a special-purpose tax) and that, consistent with state rules, ordinary groceries and prescription medicines would typically be exempt; staff said more specific resolution language would be brought to the July 14 meeting when the council considers formally placing the measure on the ballot.
Supporters in the audience argued visitors who shop locally would share the tax burden and that revenues would allow the city to pay for code enforcement, streets and facility upkeep. Council discussion reiterated that grant-funded projects often require local matching funds and staff capacity to administer grants; council members said the measure would help secure local matches and sustain service levels.
No council vote on placing the measure on the ballot occurred June 23; the item was received and filed for further action at the July 14 meeting, when council expects a formal resolution and final ballot wording.
