Needles Council places three measures on November ballot: TOT increase, $11.2M bond, council pay amendment

The Needles City Council voted July 14 to place three measures on the November 3, 2026 ballot: (1) a transient occupancy tax (TOT) increase that would raise the hotel occupancy tax from 10% to 12% (with additional 1% steps proposed in later years), (2) a general obligation bond for $11.2 million to fund street repairs and other infrastructure projects, and (3) a charter amendment to increase city council compensation from its 1958 level.

City Manager (name not specified) presented independent survey results and fiscal context for the measures and stressed the staff's role is to present facts, not advocate. Regarding the TOT, staff said the measure would require a simple majority and that the developer/consultant work shows likely support in survey data. The general obligation bond would require a two-thirds voter approval and staff said the bond is projected to generate about $740,000 for road repairs annually; staff also noted legal requirements for accountability and annual audits if the bond passes.

On the council compensation charter amendment, staff explained the city charter currently sets council pay at $1 per month (dating from 1958) and recommended asking voters whether to increase monthly compensation. Council debated whether to set the specific amount on the ballot and, after public comment and internal discussion, approved placing a compensation amendment on the ballot at a proposed monthly rate (the council chose $150/month by motion). Several council members said they would donate any additional compensation to local causes if the measure passes.

Council approved the measures by roll call and staff said the city attorney will provide guidance on communications rules for council members now that the measures are on the ballot.