6,280 / 76.6% Yes votes ...... 1,923 / 23.4% No votes

See Also: Index of all Measures

This measure, if approved, will continue the Utility Users Tax for a period of 20 years at the same 6% rate that has been collected since 1991. It will remain applicable to telephone communication services, electricity usage, gas usage, water usage and video service usage, as defined. All taxes will be collected by the service providers and remitted to the City. The tax will automatically expire in 20 years, unless it is again extended by a vote of the citizens of Hercules.

If this measure passes, the 1991 ordinance will be replaced by the proposed ordinance with no effect on other City ordinances. If this measure fails, the City will experience a substantial decrease in general fund revenue and will be compelled to consider corresponding decreases in City services.

Alfred Cabral

City Attorney

City of Hercules

The above statement is an Impartial analysis of Measure L. If you desire a copy of the full text of the measure, it may be obtained from the Hercules City Clerk by calling (510) 799-8215, and a copy will be mailed at no cost to you.

Measure L is a continuation of the existing utility users tax. Hercules depends on the current utility users tax to provide our residents with vital city services. The utility users tax pays for services such as public safety, police protection, child care programs, and park and recreation services.

Measure L is not a new tax, but simply a continuation. There is a 20 year sunset provision after which the voters can approve or disapprove the continuation after that time.

Measure L will generate $1.3 million annually for the city. Measure L is solely based on usage, so residents control the amount they pay.

Measure L ensures that money will only pay for city services. All city expenditures from this tax will be subject to an annual independent audit to make sure the city is spending the money accordingly.

If Measure L is not approved, the City of Hercules will be forced to make drastic cuts to public safety and recreational services. The city will be forced to eliminate nearly 25% of the police force, reduce the training that officers receive and cut emergency operations programs. The city will also be forced to increase fees on park and recreation services, facility rentals, child care and youth programs.

Please join law enforcement, community leaders, and local businesses in voting yes on Measure L.

Joanne Ward, Mayor Frank Batara, Vice Mayor Adelfo "Ed" Balico, Council Member Kris Valstad, Council Member