Higher Taxes On Berkeley Home Sales Fund Homeless Services

BERKELEY, CA — Berkeley voters approved Measure P in November 2018, raising the transfer tax on properties that sell for over $1.5 million from 1.5 to 2.5 percent, with the tax hike going to fund services for the homeless.

Measure P created an independent citizen commission, the Homeless Services Panel of Experts, which recommended the following allocations:

• Permanent Housing subsidies and services: 28% ($2.5 million)
• Shelter and Temporary Accommodations: 36% ($3.2 million)
• Street and Hygiene: 7% ($629,156)
• Supportive Services: 11% ($991,068)
• Flexible Housing Funds: 11% ($952,000)
• Infrastructure (Training and Evaluation): 2% ($200,000)

“I am thankful for the voters for approval Measure P, allowing us to make these significant investments to raise people out of homelessness” said Mayor Jesse Arreguin. “This is another step forward in our commitment to prioritizing the needs of our most vulnerable residents”.

According to the most recent count, Berkeley has 1,108 homeless residents. The Mayor has set a goal of reducing homelessness next year.