The Long Beach Democratic Club yesterday welcomed Mayor Bob Foster to their meeting to answer questions and ask for their endorsement of his $571 million infrastructure parcel tax on November’s ballot. The club decided overwhelmingly to endorse both the bond (Measure I) and and a rewrite of utility taxes (Measure G).
“This is something that will change us for the better,” said Foster, noting that maintenance of city facilities has been ignored in the past. Damaged streets, parks and Fire Department stations are at the top of the list. “We’ve done nothing to fix this for many, many years,” he said.
Foster noted that the bond will be paid for by a $10 per month ($120 per year) property parcel tax on all home property owners. Commercial and industrial properties will also be subject to a tax depending on square footage. “I don’t know any other way to do this,” he said, while also pointing out advantages to employing a parcel tax:
– Very efficient way to raise funds
– More stable form of revenue
– Can count towards individual state and federal taxes
He also pointed out available discounts for seniors, the disabled, faith-based organizations and non-profit organizations.
The Mayor has promised to campaign feverishly for the measure since it was first introduced, and said he has enjoyed speaking to community groups about Measure I and looks forward to speaking with more leading up to November. His Chief of Staff, Becki Ames, encourages any interested group to call the Mayor’s office and request an appointment.
“We’’ll put the Mayor in front of any group that asks,” she said.
By Ryan ZumMallen, Managing Editor