With about 25 percent of precincts reporting, it looks as if Measure E, the half-cent sales tax measure in Rohnert Park, may be headed for victory. Right now it’s leading 55 percent to 45 percent.

If that holds, expect to see a number of other local tax measures on the next ballot. Elected officials were watching this measure closely to see if the timing was right to go to voters to seek more revenue to deal with deep budget deficits.

The Sonoma County Transportation Authority board has already voted to put a $10 vehicle registration fee increase on the fall ballot to fund buses, bike paths and school safety programs.

Meanwhile, the Santa Rosa City Council is exploring a number of possible tax measures of its own. The council agreed this week to spend $25,000 on a poll of voters to see what they would be willing to support. Council members have until Aug. 8 to make up their minds.

But how many revenue measures will voters be willing to support?
They already will be asked to approve an $11 billion water bond to overhaul the state’s water system. Californians also are expected to be voting on an $18 increase in the vehicle license fee to support California state parks.
We’ll see how generous voters will feel come November.

– Paul Gullixson