CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JUNE 18, 2024
DOCUMENTS RECEIVED
AFTER PUBLISHED
AGENDA
Item #24
LB 24-016
Sales Tax
City Council Mee�ng
June 18, 2024
Item 24: LB 24-016 sales tax
I am speaking in favor of placing the extension of the ½ cent sales tax (without an increase) for 20 more years on the November 2024 ballot. This measure provides cri�cal funding for Hayward to expand and upgrade public facili�es and city services to a growing popula�on. This measure will save money by allowing the city to start contrac�ng for projects at today’s costs instead of wai�ng another 10 years. It will also help keep Hayward economically compe��ve, and encourage a safer, more service oriented local government.
I support the projects listed in Table 1, especially the HEART Program. This is a fiscally prudent ini�a�ve
which reduces the number of 911 calls that require full- on response from police and fire personnel, thus saving police �me. By forming smaller teams which also include medical personnel, residents can receive on-site services and direct referrals to appropriate resources on the first emergency call. If extending Measure C allocates sufficient funding to provide HEART what it needs to be successful, it can effec�vely address and even reduce mental health and homelessness incidents in Hayward.
Safe Parking is another priority from Table 1 which would make it easier and cost effec�ve for wrap-around services to access those who need help by offering an alterna�ve to parking RVs and cars on residen�al streets and other public and private proper�es.
I know passing this measure will be hard work and I will be encouraging residents to vote yes. I commend the Council and City staff for moving this measure forward.
Word of Cau�on: Capital funds are easier to leverage than opera�ons funding.
Ro Aguilar
Hayward resident
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Sales tax renewal