Measure X Aims To Extend Oceanside's Half-Cent Sales Tax

OCEANSIDE, CA — Oceanside voters will decide whether to extend Measure X, the city's half-cent sales tax.

Voters approved Measure X in November 2018. Starting April 1, 2019, the half-cent increase brought the city's sales tax rate to 8.25%

Since then, Measure X revenue has been used solely to improve road conditions, modernize the city's infrastructure, enhance public safety, aid in addressing homelessness, and expand youth programs, according to a city staff report. The expenditures are regularly reviewed by a Measure X Citizen Oversight Committee, which makes funding recommendations to the City Council.

Measure X was slated to be a seven-year sales tax, but the council voted in June to place the renewal measure on the November ballot. Measure X will expire in April 2026, unless renewed by voters.

A general tax extension measure requires approval of 50% of voters, plus one. If approved by the voters, the existing half-cent sales tax would be extended until April 2036.

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