The Vote for Measure C in Santa Maria: Where it Applies and What’s Exempt
SANTA MARIA, Calif. (KEYT) - Santa Maria residents evaluated details of Measure C following the final city-organized town hall meeting held last night at the Santa Maria Public Library.
The city introduced the proposal to address a structural budget gap after previously cutting dozens of municipal staff positions to reduce expenditures.
Revenue generated by Measure C would remain local and protected from state appropriation.
Under Measure C, the 0.5% sales tax increase would apply to physical personal goods purchased inside city boundaries.
Taxable items include fuel, restaurant meals, takeout orders, apparel, footwear, home electronics, appliances, furniture, books, toys, alcohol, tobacco and new or pre-owned vehicle purchases from local dealerships.
Several essential items and services are excluded from the proposed tax increase.
Groceries, prescription drugs, necessary medical supplies, diapers, feminine hygiene products, professional services, labor and municipal utility charges for residential water, electricity and trash collection would remain unaffected.
Supporters of the proposal, including the Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce, emphasize that the revenue would provide dedicated funding for local operations.
The projected income would fund year-round operations at the Paul Nelson Aquatic Center, prevent reductions to operating hours for libraries and senior programs, support road and pothole repairs and mandate a Citizens' Oversight Committee with yearly independent financial reviews.
Opponents of Measure C raise concerns about the cumulative tax burden on residents during a period of rising household expenses.
Skeptics highlight that Santa Maria voters previously approved a 1% local sales tax through Measure U in 2018 and raising the combined sales tax rate to 9.25% would place additional financial strain on lower-income families.
Opponents also point out that Measure C lacks a sunset clause, meaning the tax rate would remain permanent unless overturned by a future ballot vote.
Your news team provides real-time coverage during election seasons so voters can confirm specific dates for voter registration, mail-in ballot delivery and return periods, as well as early voting options and Election Day polling location hours.
You can also find official municipal election resources at the Santa Barbara County elections department.
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