Measure R Seeks Half-Cent Sales Tax Hike In Half Moon Bay

HALF MOON BAY, CA — Voters in Half Moon Bay will have the final say on a proposal to increase the sales tax to offset increasing public safety costs.

The City Council unanimously adopted a resolution to put Measure R before voters in November, seeking approval to add half a cent to the sales tax. The city estimates the tax would generate $2 million annually for the general fund as the city navigates a $4 million budget deficit and more expensive public safety contracts.

Councilmembers Robert Brownstone and Deborah Penrose endorsed the measure and authored the argument in favor submitted to the county's elections office. A formal argument against Measure R was not submitted.

"Last year, the City of Half Moon Bay was unexpectedly informed by the County of San Mateo that contracts with the Sheriff's Office and 911 dispatch would be increased," the argument reads in part. "For Half Moon Bay, total public safety costs (our largest expenditure) increased approximately 51% heading into the current fiscal year. This increase, along with other inflation-based increased expenses and lagging tourism revenues, resulted in a multi-million-dollar annual structural deficit that is projected to continue for the foreseeable future."

According to an impartial analysis completed by the City Attorney's Office, the measure would increase the cumulative sales tax in Half Moon Bay from 9.375 percent to 9.875 percent, or 50 cents per 100 dollars purchased.

According to the city, polling conducted by a consultant showed favorable support, with many residents identifying 911 emergency response time and local sheriff's patrols among their top priorities.

Measure R requires a simple majority to pass.

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