San Diego County leaders are keeping their options open for a future county-backed tax hike as a citizens coalition pushes a November sales tax measure. The measure, which has qualified for the November ballot, is projected to raise $360 million annually to fund healthcare, child care, solutions to the Tijuana River sewage crisis, and public safety.

Contract Extension

In late April, county officials quietly extended a contract with consultants tasked with researching and poll-testing potential county revenue options. The extension is for up to two years and has a price tag of up to $320,000. The contract was extended without notification to other county supervisors, who have criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the subcommittees and consultants.

The initial contract, signed in January 2026, called for Chula Vista-based Ironwood Public Affairs and four subcontractors to survey county residents, prepare revenue estimates for potential tax hike options, conduct focus groups and outreach, and submit a report by May 1. The amended contract now requires the consultants to deliver any requested ballot measure language, report, and presentations by June 30, 2028.

Reaction from County Leaders

County Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer has rallied behind the sales tax proposal, arguing that a local revenue measure could shield the county from potential cuts. The county has projected that the One Big Beautiful Bill Act could cost the county $300 million annually. Lawson-Remer’s office noted that a board majority voted last September to create a subcommittee and hire a consultant to explore fiscal options.

Supervisors Joel Anderson and Jim Desmond, the two Republicans on the board, have criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the subcommittees and consultants. Anderson is working on a policy proposal to force public updates on subcommittee-directed contracts and is expected to bring it to the board in August.

Original reporting: Voice of San Diego — read the source article.