El Cerrito 'Measure R' on November Ballot

The El Cerrito City Council has placed a local funding measure on the November 2014 ballot to extend the existing voter-approved Measure R at the one cent rate. If enacted, this continuation measure would generate additional locally-controlled funds for local projects and services, with money that could not be taken by the State.

Measure R was previously approved by local voters four years ago as a 1/2 cent general sales tax. However, state takeaways and the sluggish economy have put considerable strain on El Cerrito’s ability to continue to provide the public safety and quality of life services our residents rely on. If Measure R is extended at the one cent rate for twelve years, the City will be able to maintain current levels of public safety, including police services, neighborhood patrols, crime prevention programs, and rapid 9-1-1 response times, as well as after-school programs for children and teens and city parks, playfields, paths and open spaces.

The City prides itself on transparent and fiscally prudent financial practices, which include a Financial Advisory Board, mandatory financial audits and reports to the community to continue to ensure that all voter-approved funds are spent appropriately. Continuing this financial accountability would be included as part of this measure renewal.

City Staff is available to make informational presentations to civic and community groups about the Measure R extension. To schedule a presentation, contact Suzanne Iarla, Community Outreach Specialist at 510-215-4318.

For additional information, visit www.el-cerrito.org/measure-R.

—Information from the City of El Cerrito