While reviewing past agendas for the Financial Advisory Board (FAB) meetings, we discovered that Measure R has not been on the agenda for FAB review in several years. This raises questions about the oversight and management of this critical source of funding for our city.
Understanding Measure R
In November 2014, El Cerrito voters approved the extension of Measure R at the one percent sales tax rate for twelve years. The new sales tax rate went into effect on April 1, 2015, and is set to sunset on March 31, 2027. Measure R was initially passed by voters in 2010 to enable the City to maintain the level of programs and services offered in FY2009-10.
Measure R is intended to ensure that El Cerrito can continue to provide essential services and fulfill our commitment to the community’s priorities. These priorities include:
- Maintaining rapid 9-1-1 response times, neighborhood police patrols, crime prevention, and investigation.
- Ensuring the current levels of firefighters, fire protection, and emergency medical services.
- Supporting earthquake and disaster preparedness.
- Providing after-school programs for children and teens.
- Maintaining and improving city parks, playfields, paths, and open spaces.
Through the annual budget process, the City Council is responsible for determining how to allocate Measure R funds and General Fund monies to maintain essential services based on community priorities. The public is encouraged to participate throughout the budgeting process, which includes numerous public meetings.
The Role of the Financial Advisory Board
The El Cerrito website indicates that Measure R includes fiscal accountability provisions, such as:
- Annual independent financial audits.
- An annual report to the City Council and residents.
- Review of all expenditures from the measure by the Financial Advisory Board (FAB) to provide citizen oversight.
However, it appears that Measure R has not been actively reviewed by the FAB in recent years, as indicated by the absence of the topic in recent agendas.
Why This Matters
The lack of FAB review raises concerns about whether the funds from Measure R are being used effectively and transparently. With the sales tax set to sunset in 2027, it is crucial to ensure that the funds are allocated in a manner that aligns with the community’s priorities and maintains a high quality of life for El Cerrito residents and businesses.
As we move forward, we must advocate for greater transparency and accountability in the management of Measure R funds. This includes ensuring that Measure R is regularly reviewed by the FAB and that the public is informed about how these funds are being used to support our community.
If you are a business owner and have questions about the collection of this sales tax at the new rate, please contact the California State Board of Equalization or visit the BOE website.
Get Involved
We encourage all residents and business owners to participate in the public budgeting process and to voice their opinions on how Measure R funds should be used. Together, we can ensure that El Cerrito continues to thrive and that our community’s needs are met.
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El Cerrito Committee for Responsible Government (ECCRG) 