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Benicia council places 0.5¢ 'Save Our Streets' sales tax on Nov. 5 ballot
Summary
The council voted unanimously to place a citizen-driven 0.5¢ local sales tax measure for streets — known as 'Save Our Streets' — on the Nov. 5, 2024 ballot; staff said the measure would be limited by law to streets projects and estimated roughly $4 million annually if approved.
The Benicia City Council voted unanimously to place a citizen-led 0.5¢ local transaction and use tax for streets, known as the "Save Our Streets" initiative, on the Nov. 5, 2024 ballot.
Deputy City Manager Schockey explained the petition process and ballot language, saying the measure "is specifically to have the opportunity for voters to consider an additional 0.5¢ special local transaction and use tax for streets" and that the proceeds would be "only to be used for repair, maintain, or improve Benicia's streets, roads, potholes, related sidewalks, and storm drains." Schockey told the council that the Solano County registrar certified the petition signatures on March 2, 2024, and staff brought that certification forward for council action.
Schockey also noted a state legislative step is required: staff worked with Assembly Member Lori Wilson and other local leaders on AB 3,259 to raise Solano County's sales tax cap from 9.25% to 9.75%; Schockey said the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration would implement the additional 0.5¢ only if the legislature and governor approve the bill and voters approve the local measure. City Manager Giuliani told the council staff estimates the 0.5¢ would generate roughly $4,000,000 per year.
Vice Mayor Scott asked about oversight; Giuliani said the economic development board currently serves as the municipal-code oversight body and the council could create a dedicated tax-oversight commission or rely on an independent citizen oversight committee the city solicited last year. The council emphasized that, as a voter-approved special tax, funds legally must be spent only on roads and related capital improvements, not for general city services or salaries.
Councilwoman Birdseye moved to place the measure on the ballot; the motion was seconded, the clerk called the roll, and the measure placement passed with all recorded votes in favor.
The council provided no additional public comment on the measure during the hearing; the city will publish the final ballot language and oversight structure as staff develops the ordinance and associated documents.
