What Do You Think of Measure J?

From editorials encouraging support among Sonoma residents, to "Yes on J" signs peppering lawns and business facades all over town, supporters for the  five-year, half-cent sales tax have been making a final push for support before today's election.

The temporary tax would change the sales tax rate in Sonoma from 8% to 8.5%, an increase that officials say would provide much needed revenue to the city and put Sonoma on par with neighboring cities. an estimated $1.1 million yearly in revenue, which would fill in gaps in the general fund traditionally filled by redevelopment funding.

In Sonoma, redevelopment money has been crucial to funding things like graffiti abatement, historic building preservation, the homeless shelter, economic development and visitor center services. Even street maintenance: About $800,000 in redevelopment money has funded city roads annually. Proponents argue the new rate would place Sonoma on par with neighboring cities: Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Cotati and Novato, all have an 8.5% rate.

The measure has a number of unique supporters. The Press Democrat released an unsolicited editorial praising the city's industrious use of finances – noting staff cuts, the city's contracting of its fire and police services, and other cost-saving measures – and supporting the sales tax. The , usually mum on political issues, released an endorsement of Measure J. (Though not everyone was thrilled with the Chamber's endorsement decision.)

Others argue that the measure is a wasteful luxury, rather than a necessity.

In a rebuttal to the Measure J argument, a Budget Advisory Group consisting of former Mayor Pro Tem August Sebastiani, former Mayor Stanley Cohen,  along with John A. Kelly, Gregory Stubbs and Susan Norton issued an opinion urging caution to city voters.

"Until the end of February, voters believed the City was well managed financially, without budget problems. Yet within thirty days, the City declared a fiscal emergency, and now seeks an immediate tax increase. Why didn’t the City see this coming?" reads the release. 

Instead, the group urges the city to consider other options, and consider a sales tax only after all options have been exhausted.

The measure requires majority voter approval to be passed.

More information:

• The city's released an informative explanation of Measure J. It's attached, at right.

• Read the official Voter Guide opinion and debate on Measure J online.

Will you vote for the measure? If you live in the Valley or unincorporated areas, will the measure effect you? Do you hope it passes?

Check back with Patch tonight, we'll bring live results until the polls close.