Measure K Aims To Raise Encinitas' Sales Tax

ENCINITAS, CA — Encinitas voters will decide whether to raise the local sales tax to fund public infrastructure and city services.

Measure K proposes a one-cent per dollar sales tax increase to generate additional revenue to address the city's infrastructure repairs and services. The one-cent sales tax would generate approximately $15.4 million annually, according to the city.

The city's Infrastructure Task Force said Encinitas needs revenue to fund nearly $200 million in critical projects and services, including beach sand restoration, road maintenance, storm repairs and other public safety improvements.

The City Council voted in May to place the measure on the November ballot.

If approved, the city's sales tax would increase from 7.75% to 8.75%. The new sales tax would become effective on April 1, 2025. It would be in effect for 10 years.

An argument filed in favor of Measure K said the sales tax hike is needed to protect the city's beaches and parks, fix potholes, improve traffic and public safety.

"A resident-led, volunteer Infrastructure Task Force studied these problems for more than a year and identified Measure K as the solution," the argument reads in part.

An argument filed against the measure said the sales tax increase is "unnecessary."

"We do not need an additional sales tax in order to budget wisely and prioritize the essentials: infrastructure, potholes, crumbling roads and public safety issues," the argument reads in part.

As a general tax increase, Measure K needs a majority vote to pass.

Voters can learn more about the measure, and others on ballots across the region, on the county's election website.