Council hears Measure J proposal; majority emphasize public safety priorities

City staff outlined Measure J, a proposed general 1¢ sales tax on taxable transactions placed on the November ballot to generate revenue to stabilize and restore core city services. Mr. White explained that Measure J would add one cent on taxable purchases within Dixon and that proceeds would be deposited into the general fund; council discussion focused on prioritizing public safety and infrastructure while recognizing that the measure is a general tax and final allocations would be determined later.

Mr. White summarized the intent: "Measure J will actually, will create a 1¢ sales tax on taxable transactions, in the city of Dixon," and said the council wanted to provide voters a sense of how revenues would be prioritized if the measure passed. Vice Mayor Kevin Johnson was absent and asked the mayor to read his written comments into the record emphasizing public safety, personnel and street maintenance. Public commenters expressed both support (arguing the city needs competitive pay to retain officers and firefighters) and opposition (warning general taxes can be used for salaries rather than capital projects). Council members repeatedly emphasized public safety as the top priority should the measure pass.

Because Measure J is a general tax, council did not adopt a binding allocation at the meeting; instead members expressed policy priorities and directed staff to continue community outreach and preparation for the November ballot. No formal vote to allocate funds occurred during the meeting.