in a special tax measure strays from core City responsibilities. In addition, inclusion of these areas may over-promise to the voters, since the needs of core City services are great, and the measure will not raise enough funds to make a significant impact in all the areas listed.
Likewise, the Sonoma County Library is an independent government agency with its own funding sources. Again, while some City support may be appropriate, dedicating a portion of this special tax measure to the library, when the needs of core City services are challenging, seems inappropriate.
It is also striking that while the Senior Center and Ives Pool are specifically listed as eligible for funding, the Community Center and Center for the Arts, two of the other major community non-profits are not listed. Why? Alternative, more broad wording that would provide flexibility for future City Councils is set forth below. The ballot argument could provide more detail for voters. If a broader wording is not desired, the Community Center and Center for the Arts should be specifically listed.
Issues around fire services have been critical in recent years, and the measure would have greater appeal if support for fire services leads in the measure’s wording. In addition, given the City’s fiscal challenges, it also seems unrealistic to state that fire services will be ‘enhanced.’
Lastly, a more simple expression of the measure would also increase chances of approval.
Below is the draft measure proposed in the staff report, and an alternative.
Draft Proposal in staff report: "Shall the measure (Ordinance (#)) to maintain Sebastopol's parks, senior center, pool, library and mental and behavioral programs, and other City funded community services, and to enhance and provide continued support for Sebastopol's fire services, by establishing a 0.25% transaction and use (sales) tax, for 10 years, providing approximately $750,000 annually, subject to an annual audit, be adopted?” Alternative proposal: “Shall the ordinance (#) to support Sebastopol’s fire services, parks, and community services, by establishing a 0.25% transaction and use (sales) tax, for 10 years, providing approximately $750,000 annually, subject to an annual audit, be adopted?” Thank you for dedicated service and for your consideration. -Kenyon Webster