Click here for full text of Measure K: Measure K
Impartial Analysis Of Measure K - County Of Mariposa
Measure K has been placed on the ballot by the Mariposa County Board of Supervisors. At the present time, the County's Transient Occupancy Tax rate is ten percent (10%). The Board of Supervisors has determined that an increase to eleven and one quarter percent (11.25%) is needed to balance the County budget. The tax is paid by persons renting rooms in Mariposa County for less than thirty (30) days duration. If approved, the tax will become eleven and one quarter percent (11.25%) of the rent charged by the operator of the rental unit. Measure K requires an affirmative vote of the electorate voting on the Measure at the election held on November 4, 2014. If approved, the tax increase is anticipated to become operative on May 1, 2015.
Date: 7/15/14 s/ Steven W. Dahlem,
County Counsel
Argument In Favor Of Measure K
TOT is a tax on visitors to Mariposa County who stay in hotels and other lodging facilities. Mariposa County currently charges 10% TOT which is in the mid-range of similar charges across the State. Many cities and counties charge 14-17% total lodging taxes, especially in areas closer to major destinations. With a majority vote of the electorate this measure proposes to increase the Transient Occupancy Tax on lodging by 1.25% to a total of 11.25%.
Mariposa County has experienced dramatic reductions in both Federal and State gas tax revenue and Congressional highway appropriations, causing continued deterioration to overall road conditions. Key facilities like our historic courthouse require major rehabilitation for preservation and to serve their basic functions. Increased costs in law enforcement, fire operations and specific State regulatory mandates have also caused a long term erosion in the County's ability to provide normal services.
Based on occupancy rates over the last 10 years, a 1.25% TOT increase will provide an increase of $1,425,000 in County revenue, or slightly more than a 3% boost to the County's $43 million General Fund. Over the coming years this money can be applied toward improvement of basic services and staffing, stabilizing essential services (law enforcement and fire) and rehabilitation of roads, buildings and other infrastructure.
The visitors who pay 100% of these charges also benefit from outstanding law enforcement, emergency medical and search and rescue services, as well as visitor center services in both Mariposa and Coulterville. A TOT increase will allow the County to continue support for the Arts Council programs and Parks and Recreation offerings, which have become very popular with tourists and locals alike.
Please vote YES on Measure F
s/ Kevin Cann
Supervisor District IV
No Argument Against This Measure
