El Cerrito Needs Accountability, Not Another Empty Promise

El Cerrito leadership has once again reached for its familiar playbook: making bold claims, downplaying the costs, and hoping residents won’t demand proof. This time, the city is insisting that its library plan is $10 million cheaper than alternatives. But where are the numbers? If such savings existed, they would be prominently featured in public reports, not hidden behind vague talking points.

Why We Can’t Trust This Claim

• No transparency: Residents have yet to see the cost breakdown that justifies these supposed savings.
• Leadership track record: Lyman’s history of fiscal irresponsibility and the city’s ongoing pattern of mismanagement should make us all pause.
• A history of new taxes: Time and again, El Cerrito has turned to tax increases to paper over its mistakes — and services have declined despite the higher bills.

📊 Fact Box: Why Vote NO on the Library Initiative

• Unfounded Claim: City officials say their plan is $10 million cheaper, but they refuse to show residents the math.
• Poor Track Record: Lyman’s irresponsibility mirrors the city’s long history of broken promises and bad fiscal habits.

A History of Tax Hikes Since 2008:

• 2008 – Measure A: 12-year 0.5% sales tax.
• 2014 – Measure R: Extended and increased sales tax to 1%.
• 2018 – Measure V: Increased business license taxes.
• 2020 – Measure U: Extended the 1% sales tax indefinitely (no sunset).
• 2022 – Measure H: $10 per parcel per year for parks.
• 2024 – Measure G: Reaffirmed and extended 1% sales tax.
• Proposed – $300 Parcel Tax: A flat fee on every property, escalating over time, with no sunset clause.

Declining Services Despite Higher Taxes:

• City services have eroded.
• Crime has escalated compared to neighboring cities like Hercules.
• Fiscal accountability remains absent.

Bottom Line: Vote NO on any initiative in favor of the library until El Cerrito proves it can manage money responsibly.

The Library Initiative: Wrong for El Cerrito

The push for a new library follows the same pattern. Glossy promises, no accountability, and a financial burden that ultimately falls on residents. Until the city can demonstrate true fiscal discipline and transparency, no new initiative deserves our support.

What We Should Do Instead

It’s time to mothball this plan and start fresh. Residents deserve honest numbers, independent review, and a city council willing to put fiscal responsibility ahead of flashy projects.

Call to Action

On the ballot, or in any petition drive, remember this: Vote NO on any initiative in favor of the library. Don’t reward a process built on spin, half-truths, and a refusal to be accountable. El Cerrito needs to earn back trust before taking on new commitments.