Benicia council adopts resolution expressing support for Measures F, G and H

The Benicia City Council voted 5‑0 to adopt a resolution expressing the council's support for Measures F, G and H on the November ballot.

City Manager Giuliani opened the staff presentation by stressing the narrow intent behind the charter measure: “And to be very clear to the council and the community, should measure g and measure h, the companion measure, pass, the only power the city has is to implement a real property transfer tax.” He and the city attorney answered council and public questions about whether the council or staff could later change the rate; both said any charter amendment would require a vote of the people, not unilateral council or staff action.

Council members emphasized the need to balance services and infrastructure funding. Vice Mayor Scott said the council had worked to present information clearly and that the measures were about “what kind of Benicia that we want to be.” Mayor Young added support and framed the measures as part of a long‑term funding strategy: “For that reason, I'm going to support these enthusiastically as well.”

The meeting included a brief debate about using city resources for campaign advocacy. Staff repeatedly clarified that the city entity cannot advocate or use city letterhead or staff time to promote the measures; councilmembers may sign and circulate personal letters outside of city resources. After the motion, Miss Wolf called the roll and the resolution passed on a unanimous vote.