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San Mateo council votes to place 0.25¢ sales tax measure on November ballot
Summary
Council voted 4–0 to place a 0.25¢ transactions and use tax on the Nov. 3, 2026 ballot, estimating about $7 million annually for local services. The measure includes independent audits and an oversight committee; staff will appropriate $158,000 for election costs if placed on the ballot.
The San Mateo City Council voted 4–0 on July 20 to place a proposed 0.25¢ transactions and use tax measure on the November 3, 2026 ballot. Staff and consultants told the council the measure would raise an estimated $7 million annually for city services if approved by voters.
City presentations summarized a 10‑year general‑fund forecast showing a structural deficit, and staff described steps already taken to reduce costs and increase revenues. The proposed ballot language emphasizes local uses — streets, sidewalks, parks, fire and paramedic services, crime prevention and traffic safety — and the measure would include independent annual audits, public reporting and a resident oversight committee.
Staff and TeamCivics consultants described a multi‑month community outreach program, two statistically reliable surveys that showed majority support in polling, district meetings, and more than 30 community presentations. Rochelle Lewis of TeamCivics said the draft 75‑word ballot question was developed based on resident priorities and legal constraints on ballot language.
Council members emphasized that the measure is one component of a broader fiscal sustainability plan that also includes cost control, economic development and state‑level advocacy for full Vehicle License Fee (VLF) funding. Council agreed to authorize two members to submit a ballot argument if the council chooses to prepare one and appropriated $158,000 for related election costs.
Motion and outcome: A council motion to adopt a resolution ordering the ballot measure, appropriate $158,000 for election costs, authorize two council members to submit ballot arguments, and introduce an ordinance establishing the tax was made and passed 4–0. The council also nominated members to serve on the subcommittee to draft the city’s ballot argument and outreach materials.
Next steps: City clerk must submit the certified resolution to the San Mateo County Elections Office by the August 7 deadline if the council’s action is to take effect. If approved by voters, funds would be dedicated to local services and subject to audits and local oversight.
