Palo Alto Pulse gives you all the info you need to make a good decision on the three local initiatives just for Palo Alto voters on the November 4th ballot. Here is an overview of Measure B, the proposal to raise the transient occupancy tax (or ‘hotel tax’) in Palo Alto from 12% to 14%.
On the November 4th ballot, Palo Alto voters will be asked to weigh in on Measure B, a proposition to raise the hotel tax to 14% , a 2% increase over the current rate of 12%. This revenue would help fund infrastructure projects including fire stations, parks, parking garages, and the city’s bicycle and pedestrian master plan. The increased tax would bring in an additional estimated $2.4M a year and make Palo Alto’s hotel tax one of the highest in California.
Yes on B arguments:
- provides funding to upgrade Palo Alto’s fire stations and public safety infrastructure in preparation for a major earthquake or other natural disaster.
- improves sidewalk safety, safe bike routes to school and increases pedestrian safety.
- ensure funding for road maintenance and addresses dangerous intersections
- creates new off-street parking options
- helps to maintain city parks and recreation facilities
Yes on B advocates include Mayor Nancy Shepherd, Ray Bachetti, and Greg Schmid
No on B arguments:
- the new rate of 14% would put Palo Alto hotels at a competitive disadvantage against neighboring towns where the hotel tax rate is lower.
- funds raised by Measure B are not earmarked for these infrastructure and public safety projects and will instead go into the General Fund.
No on B advocates include the Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce and the Palo Alto Downtown Business and Professional Association.
Check out Palo Alto Pulse overviews on Measure C and Measure D, and subscribe to Palo Alto Pulse to stay up to date on the info you need about Palo Alto.
