Measure G: Monterey sales tax increase

MONTEREY, Calif (KION) There is a lot to like in Monterey: From city parks, to recreation facilities and other services to residents.

The question on Tuesday is, "how much are you willing to pay to keep it that way?"

The city hopes Measure G will help erase a looming budget deficit and allow city services to continue at present levels.

"It's going to keep all the quality services people want, without having to cut," said mayor Clyde Roberson.

If passed, Measure G would raise the sales tax on all purchases -- with the exception of groceries and medications -- for a period of nine years.

The half-cent sales tax on a thousand dollar flat screen would amount to $92.50.

Would shoppers notice?

"If I'm making a big purchase like a car or something like that, yeah, but a t-shirt or sweatshirt, no. If I want to buy it, I buy it," said Cecelia Santos, a visitor from Turlock.

In a survey of residents last year, over 60 percent supported the increase, but there are skeptics.

"I never think we in this day and age get the best bang for our buck with any of the sales tax increases," said Mike Bell.

Mayor Roberson disagrees.

"This half cent stays in the city of Monterey. The state can't take it, the county can't take it, it stays in our city and for a half cent, as a resident, that's well worth it," he said. 

"It sounds good on the face of it," laughed Bell.

Roberson paints a dire picture if Measure G fails.

"If this doesn't pass, we're honestly going to be cutting $2.8 million. That translates to people and programs. It translates to public safety, to the parks, to the sports center, to maintenance - across the board.  So, you go to the library. You're not going to get the service that you're used to because we have a shortage. And our parks aren't going to be maintained as well as they are now," Roberson said.

The city is quick to point out that most sales tax revenue is generated not by residents, but by tourists, buying their souvenirs.

"Sixty-two percent of the sales tax is paid by visitors and tourists, and rightly so, because obviously we're providing services to them as well as residents," said Roberson. 

We found a mixed reaction at Monterey’s Old Fisherman's Wharf.

"As long as it's being used for something productive, I’m for it. As long as it's being used for improvements," said Leo Ibarra from Hollister. 

"I don't like the idea definitely. I'm sorry, I don't think we should be have to pay that extra money," said Sandra Quiroz of San Jose.

Monterey voters will decide the issue Tuesday. Measure G need a simple majority to pass.