ALAMEDA COUNTY BALLOT TITLE LANGUAGE REVIEW
Alameda County Ballot Watchdog Committee
Local Ballot Measure Ratings
For November 3, 2026, General Election
The 29 Alameda County local ballot measures scheduled for the November 3, 2026 general election, were evaluated in September 2026 by the Alameda County Ballot Watchdog Committee. The 75-word Titles of each of the Measures, as they appear on voters’ ballots, were evaluated for the accuracy and fairness required by the California Elections Code using the criteria established by the Committee for each type of ballot measure, e.g. Bond Measure, Tax Measure and Other (non-tax measure). The collective scores represent the average score arrived at by the evaluators (up to 15 evaluators allowed). The scoring system is comparable to the popular “Yelp” type scoring system (a score of one is worst; five is best). Like a Yelp evaluation, the ratings reflect the average of the evaluators educated opinions, based on the established criteria as to what should be, and should not be, included in each type of ballot measure.
We emphasize that the Ballot Watchdog group IS NOT evaluating the merits of the measures. The evaluation is non-partisan, neither liberal nor conservative. We are only concerned with the accuracy and impartiality of the up-to-75-word ballot title being presented to the voters. The 75 words are the only thing that we know every voter sees. State law requires ballot title language to be “a true and impartial synopsis of the purpose of the proposed measure and shall be in language that is neither argumentative nor likely to create prejudice for or against the measure”. Unfortunately, many jurisdictions violate the intent of the law by exaggerating the benefits and glossing over the costs, as well as adding extraneous verbiage designed to favor passage of the measure. No one other than the agency promoting the passage of the measure is required to approve the agency’s language.
To counteract this inherent bias, there is a need for active and consistent monitoring and evaluation of local government’s ballot language, aka “Ballot Titles”. This current Ballot Watchdog Committee effort implements the findings of the 2021 Alameda County Civil Grand Jury Report, The Need for Accuracy and Impartiality of Ballot Measure Questions.
Additional information on this report and all other Alameda County Civil Grand Jury Reports can be found on the Alameda County website: https://grandjury.acgov.org. Information on the work of the Alameda County Ballot Watchdog Committee is at ballotwatchdog.com.
Results: The ACCGJA review produced individual ballot measure scores ranged from 1.8 to 4.6. The average was 3.71. The most common matter that caused a reduction in the score was a lack of clarity as to why the measure was needed and what it would cost. Almost as common was the inclusion of extraneous verbiage designed to influence a favorable vote on the measure. Numerous proposed tax increases failed to mention that the new tax is being added to an existing similar tax and what that existing tax rate is. Thus, voters could not learn the amount of increase or even the percentage of increase if the proposed measure were to pass. Also common among general tax increases was a listing of popular or feel-good spending categories that would be improved if the measure was to pass. But as a general tax, the proceeds could be spent on any public purpose, and nothing might be spent on the listed areas like emergency services, parks, pothole repairs, or homeless services. But as stated above, all the measures exhibited some degree of proponent bias, emphasizing the benefits and glossing over the costs, meaning the authors want the measure to pass.
Important New Issue: A new ballot language problem has arisen this election cycle. In our analysis of the current proposed tax increase measures, it was found that three jurisdictions, Albany, Berkeley and Emeryville, have included a Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment factor in their tax increase, but these cities have failed to reveal that important fact in the 75-word ballot language. The CPI adjustment is buried in the accompanying texts within the Voters Handbook, or online, but not revealed to the average voter who may only read what is on the ballot itself. We believe this is a serious breach of the public trust. Arguably it is also illegal.
Pertinent Laws on ballot language: (1) Cal. Elec. Code §13119(b): “If the proposed measure imposes a tax or raises the rate of a tax, the ballot shall include in the statement of the measure to be voted on, the amount of money to be raised annually and the rate and duration of the tax to be levied.”
How could a voter know the amount of money to be raised annually and the rate of the tax if the tax rate or amount could increase significantly each successive year, as has often happened in inflationary times? This is the first time we have encountered this omission. Other jurisdictions have honestly declared that their tax proposal is subject to CPI adjustment. We hope that our exposing this problem will sufficiently raise concern with the public and media to produce a legislative or judicial change.
MEASURE RTM (Regional Transit Measure)
To prevent major service cuts to BART and other transit, avoid increased traffic, and reduce pollution by: Preserving BART, Caltrain, VTA, SamTrans, AC Transit, Muni, other transit for everyone, including workers, students, seniors, persons with disabilities; Supporting transit safety, cleanliness, affordability, reliability; Repairing targeted roads/potholes; Requiring financial transparency, oversight, accountability; shall the measure enacting a 0.5% (Alameda, Contra Costa, San Mateo, Santa Clara counties), and 1% (San Francisco) sales tax for 14 years generating approximately $980,000,000 annually, be adopted?
Vote Required: 50%+1*
*Majority over multiple counties.
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
SCORE: 3.2
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the failure to provide meaningful information on where the money was specifically going. As described, the money was going everywhere without apparent priority. There was also no mention of whether there were any existing taxes in place, ignoring the sizable existing Alameda County one cent sales taxes already being collected for transportation. There is also a lack of needed clarity as to how the multi-county voting will work.
MEASURE I
Dublin Unified School District
“Shall the measure to support quality education, provide local funding that cannot be taken by the State, maintain small class sizes, attract/retain quality teachers, and provide enhanced science, technology, engineering1visual and performing arts, reading, writing, and math programs, by renewing the expiring $96 school parcel tax, adding $48 per parcel, providing approximately $2,900,000 annually for nine years, with senior exemptions, annual inflation adjustments, independent oversight, and all funds locally controlled, be adopted?”
Vote Required: 2/3
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
SCORE: 3.2
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the failure to provide information on where the money was specifically going, and because of extraneous verbiage designed to influence a Yes vote such as “locally controlled”. School districts are largely all locally controlled. And “can’t be taken by the state.” The state is the principal funder of public schools and is unlikely to take away locally raised funds.
MEASURE J
San Lorenzo USD – Education Parcel Tax
To renew expiring local school funding without increasing current tax rates; support academic excellence and programs in reading, writing, math, arts, science and technology; attract and retain highly qualified teachers and staff; and continue stable, local funding the State cannot take away; shall San Lorenzo Unified School District’s measure be adopted, renewing its expiring $99 parcel tax for 12 years, providing approximately $1.8 million annually, with senior exemptions, citizen oversight, and no funds for district administrators?”
Vote Required: 2/3
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
SCORE: 4.3
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the failure to provide sufficient information on where the money was specifically going, and whether there were any existing taxes in place, and because of extraneous verbiage designed to influence a Yes vote such as “can’t be taken by the state” The state is a principal funder of schools and is unlikely to take away locally raised funds. But generally, this measure did provide more straightforward and accurate information than most local ballot language measures.
MEASURE K
Sunol Glen – GO Bond Measure
To improve the quality of local education; complete the Main Building retrofit and renovation; replace deteriorating plumbing, electrical, sewer, heating and ventilation systems; and modernize and upgrade old classrooms, restrooms, and labs; shall Sunol Glen Unified School District’s measure be adopted authorizing $6,100,000 of bonds at legal rates, generating on average $431,700 annually while bonds are outstanding at approximate rates of $35 per $100,000 assessed value, with audits, citizens’ oversight, no money for salaries and funds staying local?
Vote Required: 55%
Criteria:
1. Intent of bond and amount of the bond.
2. The annual cost should be stated in $ per $100,000 of assessed value of a property.
3. Duration of the bond and total estimated cost to repay the bond including interest.
4. Is there another similar bond already in place? If so, that bond information should be included.
5. What is the money specifically being spent on?
**** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter which could be considered as deceptive to the voter ( -1 point).
SCORE: 3.1
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the failure to provide sufficient information about whether there were any existing bonds in place. The language fails to give the duration of the bonds and an estimate of the cost of repayment. There is also extraneous verbiage designed to influence a Yes vote such as “funds staying local” and “no money for salaries”. Bonds are traditionally known to be used for capital improvements, not for operating expenses such as salaries.
Measure L
City of Alameda – GO Bond Measure
To prepare for emergencies, earthquakes and sea-level rise; prevent flooded Tubes; repair potholes; keep streets safe and accessible; maintain response to fires, accidents, and medical emergencies; prevent Bay pollution; and protect shorelines; shall the City of Alameda measure issuing $300,000,000 in bonds, levying $49/$100,000 of assessed value, generating approximately $19,000,000 annually while bonds are outstanding, requiring oversight, public disclosures, and local control, be adopted?
Vote Required: 2/3
Criteria:
1. Intent of bond and amount of the bond.
2. The annual cost should be stated in $ per $100,000 of assessed value of a property.
3. Duration of the bond and total estimated cost to repay the bond including interest.
4. Is there another similar bond already in place? If so, that bond information should be included.
5. What is the money specifically being spent on?
**** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter which could be considered as deceptive to the voter ( -1 point).
SCORE: 3.7
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the failure to provide sufficient information whether there were any existing bonds in place, and failure to provide information on the duration of the bonds and estimated cost to repay the bonds.
Measure M
City of Alameda – Charter Amendment – Amend and Repeal Outdated Provisions
Shall the measure amending City Charter Sections 2-1.1, 2-3, 2-10, 3-7(G), 3-14, 7-2(J), 8-2, 8-5, 10-3, 10-6, 10-7,10-12, 12-4(A) and (B), 14-1, 17-10, 28-2, 28-3 and 28-4, and repealing Sections 12-3(D) and 23-3 to conform to existing practices and amend and repeal outdated provisions be adopted?
Required Vote: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent of the Measure and the duration.
2-Are there any financial effects if this measure passes? If so- how much?
3- If this passes, what or who will this measure specifically affect?
4-Does the measure deal with more than 1 issue? (Measures should deal with one or closely related subjects.)
5- What is the current situation that would remain if this measure does not pass?
*****Extraneous language unrelated to the matter which could be considered as deceptive to the voter.(-1 point).
Score 1.8
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the failure to provide even minimal information on what was being amended and little information as to why. No information is provided as to whether the changes would have financial effects. Approximately 30 more words could have been added to give voters some hint as to the subjects being affected by the proposed amendments.
Measure N
City of Alameda – Charter Amendment – Leases and Sales of Real Property Measure
Shall the measure amending Section 3-10 of the City Charter to change sales or leases of City real property exceeding one year to be approved by resolution rather than by ordinance and to reduce the City Council approval threshold from supermajority (four affirmative votes) to simple majority (three affirmative votes) for leases of City real property not exceeding ten years be adopted?
Required Vote: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent of the Measure and the duration.
2-Are there any financial effects if this measure passes? If so- how much?
3- If this passes, what or who will this measure specifically affect?
4-Does the measure deal with more than 1 issue? (Measures should deal with one or closely related subjects.)
5- What is the current situation that would remain if this measure does not pass?
*****Extraneous language unrelated to the matter which could be considered as deceptive to the voter.(-1 point).
Score: 4.0
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the lack of clarity as to why the measure was needed. No problem was identified for which this change would be the solution. There also is no explanation whether there would be financial impacts from the change. Only about 60 of the 75 words allowed to explain the measure were actually used. Voters may conclude that there would be improved efficiency in the leasing of city-owned property, but more clarity could have easily been provided.
Measure O
City of Albany – Requirement to Zoning Changes Measure
Shall the measure authorizing the Albany City Council to amend the residential voter requirements for zoning changes to the R-1 zoned areas of the City established by Measure D (enacted by the Albany voters in 1978), without majority neighborhood voter approval, after following noticed public hearing and zoning ordinance amendment procedures prescribed by State Law and the Albany Municipal Code, be adopted?
Required Vote: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent of the Measure and the duration.
2-Are there any financial effects if this measure passes? If so- how much?
3- If this passes, what or who will this measure specifically affect?
4-Does the measure deal with more than 1 issue? (Measures should deal with one or closely related subjects.)
5- What is the current situation that would remain if this measure does not pass?
*****Extraneous language unrelated to the matter which could be considered as deceptive to the voter.(-1 point).
Score: 3.9
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the lack of clarity as to why the measure was needed. Removing the opportunity for a public vote should demand an explanation. There is also no explanation regarding the financial impacts from the change. Only about 62 of the 75 words allowed to explain the measure were actually used. More clarity could have easily been provided to the voters regarding the benefits or need for the change to the city charter
Measure P
City of Albany – Street Paving and Storm Drain Parcel Tax Measure
Shall the measure updating the Street Paving and Storm Drain Special Tax, by adding very low-income rebates and low-income tax exemptions and rebates; applying the tax to possessory interests; and if a parcel over 500,000 square feet becomes exempt from this tax, adjusting the rate from $167.65 per equivalent residential unit to $0.0638 per lot square foot as provided in the measure, providing an estimated $1,400,000 annually until ended by voters, be adopted?
Vote Required: 2/3
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score: 3.7
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the lack of clarity as to how the tax would be administered and what the cost would be for property owners. The statement regarding “if a parcel over 500,000 square feet becomes exempt” causing an adjustment to the rate, would be baffling to a voter. 500,000 square feet is 11.47 acres. The claim that the tax would remain until “ended by voters” is deceptive because it implies there is a mechanism within the measure allowing the voters to terminate the tax. Instead, there is no probable way to end this tax other than the difficult citizen initiative process. Effectively this tax would probably be permanent. It is not revealed in the ballot language that Measure P will be subject to a CPI adjustment. This is a serious breach of public ethics because it can significantly increase the cost to taxpayers over time.
Measure Q
City of Albany – EMS, ALS, Fire Protection Parcel Tax Measure
Shall the measure updating the Emergency Medical Services, Advanced Life Support, and Fire Protection Special Tax on residential and commercial property, by adding low-income tax exemptions and rebates, and adjusting the rate from $0.0807 per square foot to the new rates as provided in the measure if a parcel over 500,000 square feet in size becomes exempt from this tax, providing an estimated $2,500,000 annually until ended by voters, be adopted?
Vote Required: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score: 3.5
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five, similar to Measure P, because of the lack of clarity as to how it would be administered and what the cost would be to property owners. The statement regarding “if a parcel over 500,000 square feet becomes exempt” causing an adjustment to the rate, would be baffling to a voter. That’s 11.47 acres. The new rate is not even shown. The claim that the tax would remain until “ended by voters” is deceptive because it implies there is a mechanism within the measure allowing for the termination of the tax. Instead, there is no probable way to end this tax other than the difficult citizen initiative process. Effectively this tax would probably be permanent. It is not revealed in the ballot language that Measure Q will be subject to a CPI adjustment. This is a serious breach of public ethics because it can significantly increase the cost to taxpayers over time.
Measure R
City of Albany – Business License Tax Measure
Shall the measure supporting City of Albany general services, such as fire protection, public safety, environmental and community service programs, by increasing the City’s business license tax to those rates specified in the measure, levying the tax upon business gross receipts instead of number of employees, and updating local tax collection procedures, providing an estimated additional $600,000 annually, until ended by voters, with all funds remaining local which cannot be taken by Sacramento be adopted?
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score:3.2
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the lack of clarity as to what the new tax would be.. It is not revealed in the 75-word ballot language that Measure R will be subject to a CPI adjustment. This is a serious breach of public ethics because it can significantly increase the cost to taxpayers over time. The claim that the tax would remain until “ended by voters” is deceptive because it implies there is a mechanism within the measure allowing for the termination of the tax. Instead, there is no probable way to end this tax other than the difficult citizen initiative process. Effectively this tax would probably be permanent. Also stating that all funds shall remain local is extraneous verbiage designed to influence a positive vote. Where else would the City of Albany expend its funds?
Measure S
City of Albany Real Property Transfer Tax Measure
To support City of Albany general services, with funding that cannot be taken by Sacramento, including: street and park maintenance, recreation, public safety, and environmental programs, shall a measure adjusting the City’s real property transfer tax rate from $15.00 to between $10.00 and $30.00 per $1,000 purchased, depending upon the property’s purchase price, providing an additional $1,000,000 annually, until ended by voters, with all funds remaining local be adopted?
Vote Required: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score: 3.6
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the lack of clarity as to what the new rate would be and how it would be administered. This ballot language contains an exceptional amount of extraneous verbiage designed to influence passage. First, the claim that the tax would remain until “ended by voters” is deceptive because it implies there is a mechanism within the measure allowing for the termination of the tax. Instead, there is no probable way to end this tax other than the difficult citizen initiative process. Effectively this tax would probably be permanent. Second, stating that the funds cannot be taken by Sacramento is unnecessary. The State provides much of the funding to cities, so that Sacramento taking away locally derived funding is extremely improbable. Third, stating that the funds would remain local is also unnecessary. Where else would the City of Albany spend its funds? Fourth, the language lists several popular areas where the funds would be spent like parks and public safety. But as a general tax, the money could be entirely spent on other civic purposes.
Measure T
City of Albany – Street Trees & Streetlighting Parcel Tax Measure
Shall the measure to enact a special parcel tax on non-exempt property in the City at $0.0354 per lot square foot to maintain and improve public street trees and streetlighting to enhance local safety and sustainability, subject to an annual consumer price index adjustment up to 3%, exempting qualifying low-income residents, providing an estimated $775,000 annually until ended by voters, be adopted?
Vote Required: 2/3
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score:4.3
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the lack of clarity as to what non-exempt property is being included. Or why is this exemption issue even mentioned? Exempt property is normally excluded. The claim that the tax would remain until “ended by voters” is deceptive because it implies there is a mechanism within the measure allowing for the termination of the tax. Instead, there is no probable way to end this tax other than the difficult citizen initiative process. Effectively this tax would probably be permanent. It is noted that the CPI adjustment is mentioned for Albany’s Measure T but concealed in Measure R. But generally, this measure provides more straightforward and accurate information than most local ballot measures.
Measure U
City of Berkeley – Bond Measure
Shall the measure authorizing issuance of $300,000,000 in general obligation bonds to fund acquisition and improvement of fire stations, emergency response facilities, parks and recreation facilities, and other public infrastructure and facilities, and increase climate resiliency, subject to independent oversight and audits, be adopted?
Financial Implications: Average annual taxpayer costs over projected 40 years bonds are outstanding are approximately $22.14 per $100,000 assessed property value; generating approximately $15,200,000/year.
Vote Required: 2/3
Criteria:
1. Intent of bond and amount of the bond.
2. The annual cost should be stated in $ per $100,000 of assessed value of a property.
3. Duration of the bond and total estimated cost to repay the bond including interest.
4. Is there another similar bond already in place? If so, that bond information should be included.
5. What is the money specifically being spent on?
**** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter which could be considered as deceptive to the voter ( -1 point).
Score: 3.8
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the unusually large amount of the proposed indebtedness relative to the only very general information on where the money was to be spent, “and other public infrastructure”. Also, because of the failure to provide information on whether there were any existing similar bonds in place.
Measure V
City of Berkeley – Sales Tax Measure
Shall the measure levying a 0.5% sales tax in Berkeley, increasing the total sales tax rate in the City to 10.75%, estimated to generate $9,000,000 to $10,000,000 annually, with proceeds placed into the General Fund for general City uses, including but not limited to sustaining fire, police and 911 dispatch services, youth and senior services, and community programs, until ended by the voters, with independent audits, be adopted?
Vote Required: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score: 4.5
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because the claim that the tax would remain until “ended by the voters” is deceptive because it implies there is a mechanism within the measure to terminate the tax. There is no probable way to end this tax other than the difficult citizen initiative process. Effectively this tax would be permanent. But generally, this measure provides more straightforward and accurate information than most local ballot measures.
Measure W
City of Berkeley – Charter Amendment Measure
Shall the measure amending the City Charter to reduce candidate filing fees; eliminate signatures in lieu of filing fee process; eliminate certain personal information from candidate statements; clarify and revise initiative, referendum and recall processes; amend election timelines for filling Mayor and Councilmember vacancies; increase the maximum amount from the public campaign financing fund for administration and enforcement from $250,000 to $400,000 per four-year election cycle; and make other changes be adopted?
Required Vote: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent of the Measure and the duration.
2-Are there any financial effects if this measure passes? If so- how much?
3- If this passes, what or who will this measure specifically affect?
4-Does the measure deal with more than 1 issue? (Measures should deal with one or closely related subjects.)
5- What is the current situation that would remain if this measure does not pass?
*****Extraneous language unrelated to the matter which could be considered as deceptive to the voter.(-1 point).
Score: 3.1
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the lack of clarity as to why the measure was needed. There are also too many subjects and city processes being covered, with the worrisome concluding line of “make other changes.”. There is also little explanation regarding the financial impacts from the change other than increasing the maximum amount from the public campaign financing fund. Presumably this is money already dedicated to that program. More clarity could have been provided to the voters regarding the benefits or need for the change to the city charter.
Measure X
City of Berkeley Rent Ordinance Measure
Shall the measure to amend the Rent Stabilization and Eviction for Just Cause Ordinance by making most rent control and registration exemptions inapplicable to units that were not exempt when the current tenancy began; allowing modification or waiver of fees for subsidized units owned or leased by nonprofits; changing the annual registration deadline; limiting annual rent increases to ten percent; and allowing tenant associations in smaller properties, be adopted?
Required Vote: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent of the Measure and the duration.
2-Are there any financial effects if this measure passes? If so- how much?
3- If this passes, what or who will this measure specifically affect?
4-Does the measure deal with more than 1 issue? (Measures should deal with one or closely related subjects.)
5- What is the current situation that would remain if this measure does not pass?
*****Extraneous language unrelated to the matter which could be considered as deceptive to the voter.(-1 point).
Score: 2.5
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the lack of clarity as to why the measure was needed. It is not clear what problem is being solved by the proposed changes. The exemptions language is confusing There is also no explanation regarding the financial impacts from the change. More clarity could have been provided to the voters regarding the benefits or need for the change to the Berkeley Rent Ordinance.
Measure Y
City of Berkeley – Initiative – Arts Tax Measure Amendment Measure
Shall the measure creating a special parcel tax to fund grants for performing arts organizations, art projects, art organization operational and programmatic expenses and capital projects, community festivals, and administrative costs, with oversight by the City’s Civic Arts Commission, at a rate of $0.07 per square foot of improvements, estimated to generate approximately $6,300,000 annually and $84,800,000 over its twelve-year duration, be adopted?
Vote Required: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score: 4.6
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of a lack of clarity as to whether this is a new tax or an amendment to an existing tax. The Measure’s title says Amendment Measure. But the text says, “creating a special parcel tax”. But generally, this measure provides more straightforward and accurate information than most local ballot measures.
Measure Z
City of Berkeley – Initiative – Public Bank Measure
Shall the measure creating a special parcel tax to capitalize and support a public bank to fund investments in. affordable housing, green energy/infrastructure and small businesses, at rates of $0.06/square foot of residential improvements and $0.09/square foot of non-residential improvements, estimated to generate approximately $9,200,000 the first year and $58,300,000 over its six-year duration, with funds subject to review, allocation and approval by the City Council and regular audits, be adopted?
Vote Required: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score: 4.2
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of a lack of clarity as to how it would work and the fact that the measure states that the funds, and approval are subject to review by the City Council, which is normally acceptable, but it creates ambiguity as to the measure’s limits of activity. Is it to be a physical bank or merely a funding source for the stated purposes? It is not revealed in the ballot language that Measure Z will be subject to a CPI adjustment. This is a serious breach of public ethics because it can significantly increase the cost to taxpayers over time.
Measure AA
City of Berkeley – Initiative – Soda Tax Measure
Shall the measure replacing the City’s $0.01per fluid ounce general tax on the distribution of sugar-sweetened beverages with a $0.02 per fluid ounce special tax to fund public health, nutrition, and drinking water accessibility programs by nonprofits, the City, or Berkeley Unified School District, retaining current exemptions for small retailers, milk products, baby formula, alcoholic beverages, and medical and weight-loss products, estimated to generate approximately $2,200,000 annually, until repealed by the voters, be adopted?
Vote Required: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score: 4.4
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because there are so many alleged recipients of the fairly modest tax proceeds that it seems unlikely that all could be benefited in a meaningful way. The tax is described as a general tax in the first line and a special tax in the second line. Presumably one of those statements is incorrect. The claim that the tax would remain until “repealed by the voters” is deceptive because it implies there is a mechanism within the measure to terminate the tax. There is no probable way to end this tax other than the difficult citizen initiative process. Effectively this tax would be permanent. It is not revealed in the ballot language that Measure AA will be subject to a CPI adjustment. This is a serious breach of public ethics because it can significantly increase the cost to taxpayers over time.
Measure BB
City of Emeryville – Business Tax Measure
To protect City of Emeryville services/ ensure smaller businesses pay less than larger businesses, shall the measure be adopted to:
Keep parks/ playgrounds safe; repair potholes/ maintain streets; maintain 9-1-1 response;
improve crime prevention; maintain senior/ youth services; general government use;
by updating/ simplifying Emeryville’s 42-year-old business license rates up to 0.4% of gross receipts (described in the ordinance) until ended by voters, providing $12,400,000 annually, requiring independent oversight?
Vote Required: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score: 3.4
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the lack of clarity as to what is an existing tax and what is being increased. Stating that this measure is an update or a simplification of an existing tax hides the fact that it is actually an increase of an existing tax. The claim that the tax would remain until “ended by voters” is deceptive because it implies there is a mechanism within the measure allowing for the termination of the tax. Instead, there is no probable way to end this tax other than the difficult citizen initiative process. Effectively this tax would probably be permanent. It is not revealed in the ballot language that Measure BB will be subject to a CPI adjustment. This is a serious breach of public ethics because it can significantly increase the cost to taxpayers over time.
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Measure CC
City of Hayward – Business Tax Ordinance Measure
HAYWARD BUSINESS LICENSE TAX MODERNIZATION: Shall the measure updating the Hayward Business License Tax for the first time since 1978, to support general city services, including neighborhood police protection, firefighting, 911 response, libraries, and pothole repair, generating an additional $12 million annually until repealed, with a minimum tax of $60 and rates from $.30 to $3.75 per $1,000 of gross receipts, with higher rates for higher-grossing businesses, as stated in the ordinance, be adopted?
Vote Required: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score: 4.3
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of misleading voters by calling the measure an update or modernization instead of a tax increase. While it says the measure will generate an additional $12 million annually, it does not say either what the present revenues are, or what the present tax rate is. As a general tax, the proceeds can be spent on any city purpose and not necessarily the popular listed items of police protection, firefighting, pothole repair and 911 responses.
Measure DD
City of Newark – Newark Essential Services Protection Measure
Newark Essential Services Protection Measure. To protect city services such as repairing potholes/streets; keeping neighborhoods safe/clean, and maintaining 9-1-1 emergency response/fire protection/neighborhood police patrols/parks/recreation programs, shall the measure be adopted updating Newark’s 56-year-old business license ordinance, lowering many small businesses’ taxes, with rates up to 0.3% of gross receipts (as described in the ordinance), raising $6,600,000 annually until ended by voters, with spending disclosure/ independent audits?
Vote Required: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score: 3.6
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of misleading voters in the title of the measure: “Essential Services Protection Measure”, and an “updating” when it actually is a business tax increase, the proceeds of which can go to any city expense, and none may go to the popular listed topics of keeping neighborhoods safe/clean, pothole repairs, etc. The measure doesn’t say what the existing tax rate is only that the measure will raise $6.6 million. The claim that the tax would remain until “ended by voters” is deceptive because it implies there is a mechanism within the measure allowing for the termination of the tax. Instead, there is no probable way to end this tax other than the difficult citizen initiative process. Effectively this tax would probably be permanent.
Measure EE
City of Oakland – Charter Amendment Measure
Shall the measure to amend Oakland’s City Charter to, among other things, {1} make the Mayor the City’s chief executive with a legislative veto, (2) empower the Council to override vetoes, confirm appointments of certain directors, and appoint an Independent Budget and Legislative Analyst, (3} affirm Councilmembers’ right to acquire information from other City officials, (4} require Councilmembers to work full-time, and (S} empower the Public Ethics Commission to set salaries for all City elected officials using similar formulas, be adopted?
Required Vote: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent of the Measure and the duration.
2-Are there any financial effects if this measure passes? If so- how much?
3- If this passes, what or who will this measure specifically affect?
4-Does the measure deal with more than 1 issue? (Measures should deal with one or closely related subjects.)
5- What is the current situation that would remain if this measure does not pass?
*****Extraneous language unrelated to the matter which could be considered as deceptive to the voter.(-1 point).
Score: 1.8
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the lack of clarity as to why the measure was needed. There are also too many issues and city processes being covered, with the worrisome line of “among other things”. There is also little explanation regarding the financial impacts from the proposed changes. More clarity could have been provided to the voters regarding the benefits or need for the change to the city charter.
Measure FF
City of Oakland – Real Property Tax Measure
Shall the measure amending Oakland’s Real Property Transfer Tax Ordinance to eliminate the foreclosure exception for all property transfers except transfers converting commercial property to certain housing or healthcare uses, transfers to community banking organizations, and certain transfers of residential properties of four units or less, and allowing the City Council to establish, amend, or remove foreclosure-related exceptions, raising approximately $4-$13 million annually pursuant to tax rates in Oakland Municipal Code section 4.20.020, beginning January 1, 2027 until repealed, be adopted?
Vote Required: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score: 4.1
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because of the lack of clarity as to why the measure was needed. There is also little explanation regarding the financial impacts from the change other than that there would be an increase in future city revenues depending upon unpredictable future real estate foreclosures. More clarity could have been provided to the voters regarding the justification for this change to the city tax ordinance.
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Measure GG
City of Piedmont – Real Property Conveyance Tax Measure
Shall the measure, providing funding for City of Piedmont’s essential city services, such as police, fire, and emergency medical response; and maintenance of aging City buildings, parks, stormwater drains, roads and sidewalks, by increasing the real estate transfer tax from 1.3% to 1.75% to be more in line with neighboring cities and to generate approximately $1,500,000 annually in general tax revenue until ended by voters, be adopted?
Vote Required: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score: 4.5
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because it is misleading to say that the proceeds may go to the popular listed topics of parks, storm drains, police, fire, etc. This is a general tax, the proceeds of which can go to any city expense, and none may go to the listed recipients of the proceeds. The claim that the tax would remain until “ended by voters” is deceptive because it implies there is a mechanism within the measure allowing for a public opportunity to terminate the tax. Instead, there is no probable way to end this tax other than the difficult citizen initiative process. Effectively this tax would probably be permanent.
Measure HH
City of Pleasanton – Uniform Transient Occupancy Tax Measure
Shall a measure be adopted to increase the City’s Uniform Transient Occupancy Tax paid by hotel guests from 8% to 10% on July 1, 2027, and to 12% on July 1, 2028, generating an estimated $1.4 to $2.8 million per year in additional revenue, that can be used to maintain city services, such as: police and fire protection; park and street maintenance; recreation programs; and other general government uses, until ended by voters?
Vote Required: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score: 4.6
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because it is misleading to say that the proceeds may go to the popular listed topics of parks, street maintenance, recreation programs, etc. This is a general tax, the proceeds of which can go to any city expense, and none may go to the listed recipients of the proceeds. The claim that the tax would remain until “ended by voters” is deceptive because it implies there is a mechanism within the measure allowing for a public opportunity to terminate the tax. Instead, there is no probable way to end this tax other than the difficult citizen initiative process. Effectively this tax would probably be permanent. Otherwise, this language provides relatively straightforward voter information.
Measure II
City of Union City – Union City Essential Services Extension Measure
Union City Essential Services Extension Measure. To maintain critical city services, including 9-1-1 emergency response/paramedics/fire protection; street/pothole repair; neighborhood police patrols; crime/gun violence prevention programs; youth/senior programs; and other city services, shall the measure extending the City of Union City’s existing voter-approved utility users tax for 9 years at the current 5% rate (no increase), providing $7,000,000 annually, with senior/ low-income exemptions, annual audits, and all funds locally controlled, be adopted?”
Vote Required: 50%+1
Criteria:
1-Intent and structure of the tax (i.e. a % or rate for a sales or transfer tax, or a $ per parcel or square foot for a parcel tax).
2- Amount of tax generated per year and the duration of the tax.
3- Is this a Special or General tax? (The more specific it’s described, so that one can easily figure which it is, the more credit they get).
4- Where is the money specifically going? (particularly if a special tax).
5-Is there an existing or similar tax already in place? If so, that tax information should be included.
****** Extraneous language unrelated to the matter (-1 point )
Score: 4.6
Comments: The score was lowered from the maximum of five because it is misleading to say that the proceeds may go to the popular listed topics of emergency services, street/pothole repairs, neighborhood police patrols, violence prevention, etc. This is a general tax, the proceeds of which can go to any city expense, and none may go to the listed recipients of the proceeds. Otherwise, this ballot language provides relatively straightforward voter information.
Next Steps:
We are hoping every agency will get a 5 on our scale and the nice thing is ..it is really easy to do…just put in the simple information listed in the section “Alameda County Ballot Title Ratings Criteria” on our website under Information Needed
Our goal is to have a minimum amount of information within the 75 word ballot measure label that the average voter would like to see and more importantly need in order to make an informed decision on that measure .
This should be a minimum expectation for any agency interested in good governance and prioritizing an informed electorate. This information should not be a moving target and is especially simple on a tax or bond measure ….it’s always the same information needed for any tax or bond measure regardless of which agency is putting that measure on the ballot.
