Propositions and Local Taxes: What Voters Must Decide This Year

Southern Californians face rising costs as over 30 local jurisdictions request new tax measures on the November ballot. Many cities are seeking approval for sales, hotel, business, parcel, or utility taxes to address budget deficits caused by stagnant revenues from Proposition 13-era property tax caps.

Statewide, there are 14 voter propositions with significant impacts on Santa Cruz County. Among them is Prop 43, which would raise the threshold required to approve certain local special taxes from a majority vote to two-thirds of voters. This change aims to stymie potential increases in Metro funding and other municipal levies.

John Flores notes that many residents are asking about these measures after attending events like Santa Cruz County's Open Studios Art Tour. He has prepared town halls explaining the costs, arguments for both sides, and contributions made by each campaign side so voters can decide independently.