Sonoma, Measure H
Should Sonoma County enact a sales tax to fund fire protection and emergency response?
Measure H would create a half-cent sales tax that would generate $60 million annually. Passes with a majority vote.
Yes Argument
Sonoma County has faced major fire and winter storm disasters in recent years and faces more in the future. The Sonoma County Fire Chiefs Association has crafted Measure H to fill gaps in emergency services, increase staffing, reduce response times and accelerate fire prevention work, such as vegetation management. The tax would stay local and be overseen by a mandatory oversight committee to make sure the money is spent appropriately.
No Argument
Citizens of Sonoma County pay enough taxes between existing sales taxes and parcel taxes for local fire protection districts. This proposed tax is regressive and will hurt small businesses.
Key Supporters
In Support
- Mike Thompson, U.S. representative
- Professional Fire Fighters of Sonoma County
- Sonoma County Fire Chiefs Association
In Opposition
- Michael Hilber, county resident