Santa Maria, Calif. – After a final town‑hall meeting at the Santa Maria Public Library, city officials laid out the specifics of Measure C, a ballot measure that would add a half‑percent sales‑tax on most physical personal goods purchased within city limits. The proposal is intended to fill a structural budget shortfall that emerged after the city trimmed dozens of municipal positions to curb spending.
What the tax would cover
Under Measure C, the 0.5% sales‑tax increase applies to a broad range of tangible items, including fuel, restaurant meals, take‑out orders, apparel, footwear, home electronics, appliances, furniture, books, toys, alcohol, tobacco and both new and pre‑owned vehicle purchases from local dealerships. Revenue generated by the tax would stay in Santa Maria and be shielded from state appropriation.
Exemptions and protections
Several essential goods and services would remain exempt. Groceries, prescription drugs, necessary medical supplies, diapers, feminine hygiene products, professional services, labor and municipal utility charges for residential water, electricity and trash collection would not be affected by the new rate.
How the money would be used
Supporters, including the Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce, argue the additional revenue would fund core community services. Projected income would support year‑round operations at the Paul Nelson Aquatic Center, prevent reductions in library and senior‑program hours, aid road and pothole repairs, and fund a Citizens’ Oversight Committee that would conduct yearly independent financial reviews.
Opposition concerns
Opponents warn that the added tax burden could strain households already facing rising expenses. They note that Santa Maria voters approved a 1% local sales tax through Measure U in 2018, and that the combined sales‑tax rate would rise to 9.25% under Measure C. Critics also point out the lack of a sunset clause, meaning the tax would remain permanent unless overturned by a future ballot vote.
Voting information
Residents can find official election resources through the Santa Barbara County Elections Department. The city continues to provide real‑time coverage of registration deadlines, mail‑in ballot delivery and return periods, early‑voting locations, and Election Day polling hours to help voters make an informed choice.
Measure C will appear on the November ballot. Voters are encouraged to review the full list of taxable items and exemptions, consider the projected benefits to local services, and weigh the potential impact on household budgets before casting their vote.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
