There are a number of measures on the ballot this November that have local impacts.
Proposition 33 – Rent Control
This statewide measure, a result of the initiative process, would repeal what’s called the Costa-Hawkins law of 1995 that prevents cities from imposing rent control. Proponents point out the high cost of housing in California, and suggest that rent control can play a part in reducing the affordable housing crisis. Opponents argue that repealing Costa-Hawkins will prompt the landowners of rental properties to abandon that use and sell rental properties and thereby reduce the number of rental units available. The legislative analyst notes that allowing rent control will reduce local government revenues through reduction of property tax.
Read the ballot arguments HERE
Proposition 5 – Reducing voter approval to 55% for affordable housing bonds
This is a California Constitutional Amendment that would reduce the requirement for passage of local bonds from 67% to 55% when the bonds are for affordable housing or local infrastructure. Proponents argue that funding to subsidize affordable housing is necessary to address the lack of affordable housing creation, and the by lowering the voter threshold communities will be better able to help finance projects. Opponents argue that because the bonds will add to property tax bills, this amendment will increase community indebtedness, and be burdensome to property tax payers who will pass on the higher costs to renters.
Read the ballot arguments HERE
Measure J – Banning factory farm practices in Sonoma County
This is a Sonoma County ballot measure that would ban the feeding and conditional practices of so-called factory farms. Proponents insist this measure is about protecting the welfare of livestock and enduring that their treatment is humane and healthy. Opponents argue that this measure will cause the closure of Sonoma County’s family farms, that there are no factory farms in the county and, that the negative financial effects on the county would be substantial.
Read the ballot arguments HERE
Measure T – Increasing the sales tax in the City of Sonoma by 1/2 percent
This city measure was added to the ballot by a vote of the five-member City Council. It would increase the local sales tax rate by a half percent. Arguments in favor are that the funds are necessary to finance the cost of providing city services, and to help resolve a General Fund budget deficit of over $2 million this year, and projected for each of the next four years. Arguments against are that sales taxes are a regressive form of taxation that is more burdensome on lower-income and fixed-income earners, and that city spending should be lowered.
Read the measure summary HERE
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