WHAT IS MEASURE Y?
A temporary emergency one percent sales tax measure, which was placed on the June 2012 election ballot, became effective October 2012. The five-year emergency measure was set to expire October 2017; however, following voter approval of Measure I in November 2014, it was extended for an additional 15 years through 2032.
Measure Y supports and maintains essential services for the City of Soledad, including funding of positions such as police officers, firefighters (under CAL-FIRE Contract) and economic sustainability through the allocation of funds for the City’s capital reserve.
Measure Y continues to be a vital resource to deliver the community’s highest priorities and support the City of Soledad’s economic stability.
Citizen Oversight
Consistent with the Ordinance that enacted the sales tax measure, the City Council established a seven-member Transactions and Use Tax Citizen Oversight Committee (“TUT Committee”). The Committee will continue its oversight role on the use of the Measure Y sales tax revenue to support accountability, transparency, and public engagement efforts.
MEASURE S TAX REVENUE
Measure Y tax revenue totaled $2,423,509 in Fiscal Year 2023-24, accounting for approximately 17% of general fund revenue.
WHO PAYS SALES TAX?
Anyone who purchases taxable goods in Soledad pays the sales tax, not just residents of Soledad. A large portion of sales tax paid comes from non-residents. The City of Soledad provides shopping options for the greater region and for through-traffic on Highway 101. These visitors use City streets and services, thus the sales tax is paid by a wider range of people, who all benefit from City services.
HOW IS YOUR 1% SALES TAX SPENT
The sales tax dollars collected through Measure Y are reinvested in our community and stay in Soledad!
Measure Y funds will be used on the following Council-adopted priorities for Fiscal Year 2024-25: