Measure U Archives

Measure U passes, but businesses remain divided

By Joey Horan | November 3, 2020 |

Parking lot of Easter Hill United Methodist Church polling site. Vote sign in multiple langues.

The change in the tax code could increase the city’s revenues by nearly $6 million dollars, according to a financial analysis by the city attorney. The city, according to a finance department presentation from October 6, is currently operating on a $6 million deficit.

City forced to increase debt, rethink its finances

By Manjula Varghese | October 16, 2015 |

Last week, Richmond’s City Council faced a painful choice between paying a $30 million bond termination fee or taking on an extra $10 million in debt over the life of the bond. Neither of these options help the city handle its deficit, but council members opted for continuing payment through the life of the bond.

Richmond votes yes on sales tax measure; California votes yes on sentencing reforms

By Alice Kantor | November 5, 2014

Measure U, the ballot item to increase the retail sales taxes to 9.5%, passed yesterday with 53.7% of the vote. Another key ballot item, Proposition 47, also passed. The statewide proposition to reduce six types of felony crimes to misdemeanors was approved with 65% of voters in favor.

Proposed tax hike draws support, criticism, but little community response

By Brett Murphy | October 12, 2014 |

Revenues from the little-discussed Measure U tax would be split between street improvements, public safety and health, and wellness and youth services, proponents say. But it is not possible to be certain of how the dollars will be spent.

Richmond to spend $15,000 on information campaign for sales tax hike

By Larry Zhou | September 24, 2014 |

The Richmond City Council on Tuesday authorized City Manager Bill Lindsay to spend up to $15,000 on mailing information to Richmond voters about Measure U, the half-cent sales tax measure voters will decide in November.