SANTA MARIA, Calif. (KEYT) - City staff in Santa Maria are encouraging more residents to attend the final Town Hall regarding sales tax ballot Measure C this Thursday.
It's scheduled for 4:00pm Thursday at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center, just ahead of midterm Election Day – now only a week away.
If passed, Measure C would increase the city sales tax rate from 8.75% to 9.25%, generating an estimated $13 million in annual revenue to address an ongoing structural deficit.
City officials state the revenue would support pothole and street repairs, maintain current operating hours at the Santa Maria Public Library, prevent seasonal closures at the Paul Nelson Aquatic Center and fund recreation and educational programs for youth, adults and seniors.
The town hall is scheduled from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at 510 East Park Street, with Spanish interpretation services available for attendees.
The meeting follows four earlier informational sessions held throughout September and early October at local community centers and the public library.
City representatives will present the fiscal parameters of the proposal before opening the floor to resident questions and concerns.
Opposition to Measure C has focused on the timing of council pay adjustments.
On Aug. 4, 2026, the Santa Maria City Council voted to approve a 20% increase to their own monthly stipends, which takes effect in December 2026.
Opponents have criticized council members for raising their personal stipends while forecasting a structural budget deficit and asking residents to support a sales tax increase.
City officials maintain that council stipends are drawn from general fund allocations separate from the infrastructure targets listed on the ballot. Legally structured as a general services measure, Measure C includes accountability provisions featuring an independent annual audit and a Citizens Oversight Committee.
Thursday's meeting at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center is the final organized public forum before voters decide on Measure C on Nov. 3, 2026.
Additional details are available on the official City of Santa Maria Election Page.
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