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 budget gap after previously cutting dozens of municipal staff positions to reduce expenditures.
Under Measure C, the 0.5% sales tax increase would apply to physical personal goods purchased in the city.
“When I was working for my previous agency, the City of Lancaster, there were budget concerns and there was a measure that was presented for the residents of Lancaster to vote,” says Ramon Galo, Santa Maria Recreation and Parks director. “And it was similar to what City of Santa Maria is doing.”
Taxable items include everything from fuel to restaurant meals, home electronics and even new and pre-owned vehicles.
“The purpose of the measure was primarily to assist and fund recreation programs and services,” says Galo.
Groceries, prescription drugs, necessary medical supplies, diapers and feminine hygiene products would not be impacted.
“Right now the focus is to sustain and maintain,” says Galo. “After school programs and keeping soccer fields open or in inputting dollars into maintenance and repair of playgrounds is essential.”
Officials say the projected income will go toward keeping the Paul Nelson Aquatic Center opened the year round, extending operating hours of the public library and keeping up to date on repairs to roads and park facilities.
“I’ve seen playgrounds years ago where they would remain closed for months because you can't afford to buy a slide,” says Galo.
A citizens' oversight committee will conduct yearly financial reviews.
“And now with opportunities to fund projects like that as they get damaged, worn out or whatever happens to them, then they can be replaced or enhanced,” says Galo.
Opponents of Measure C say the timing is terrible considering the cost of everything is going up right now.
They also point out that measure c lacks a sunset clause, meaning the tax rate would remain permanent unless overturned by a future ballot vote.
“Perhaps at this time is maintained sustain, get deferred maintenance in the rearview mirror and then in the near future, start looking at really cool opportunities to enhance some of the things we have,” says Galo.
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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