122. Prop One

Local transit depends on sales tax revenue: 0.6% (out of the total 9.5%), which is 6 cents for every $10 retail purchase.  Prop One would increase it to 0.9%.  So almost a 10% sales tax; sounds hefty, but there is no state income tax and no sales tax on groceries.

Last year a similar request failed at the polls, requiring reduction of services to outlying areas of the county.  These areas opted out of the transit system, further reducing revenue. If Prop One fails, all weekend and evening (after 7pm) service would be eliminated, further reducing fares, and so on.  It's call a death spiral.

Opposing Prop One?  Just the local Chamber of Commerce.  The county Republican Party has yet to take a stand.