Measure H would fund flood control, repairs (San Mateo Times)

BURLINGAME Voters are being asked to approve a $44-million bond measure to rebuild the city's aging flood-control system and make seismic and other repairs to city buildings. Most of the money, $37 million, would go toward flood-control infrastructure, from fixing and upgrading pump stations to bolstering levees and improving creek drainage. The remaining $7 million would provide seismic upgrades and improved access for the disabled at city facilities such as City Hall and the recreation center. Both proponents and opponents of the measure agree the fixes are necessary. What they disagree about is how to fund them. Those in favor of the measure, including the City Council and city staff, say that while no taxes are fair, a bond measure that levies a parcel tax is the most appropriate funding mechanism. Opponents of the measure, made up of a cadre of new homeowners, argue that the tax would be unfair. Because the tax would be based on the assessed value of each homeowner's property, newer residents would be penalized by the tax, since Proposition 13 fixes the property values at the time of purchase for tax purposes. Opponents argue a sales tax would be a fairer mechanism. The measure's supporters, who have raised $12,346, argue that a sales tax would punish low-income families. A sales tax is also not a realistic funding option, since it would have to be approved at the county level, supporters say.

– Written by Fiona