HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolution 2016-171 N.C.S. 11/07/2016Resolution No. 2016 -171 N.C.S.
of the City of Petaluma, California
RESOLUTION SUPPORTING MEASURE Y, A COUNTYWIDE 1/8 CENT
SALES TAX MEASURE FOR THE SONOMA COUNTY LIBRARY
WHEREAS, the Sonoma County Library was formed in 1975 pursuant to a Joint Powers
Agreement between member agencies, which has been amended over time to include the County
of Sonoma and each city in Sonoma County; and
WHEREAS, much of the Sonoma County Library's funding for services derives from its
share of property taxes, which was set by formula in 1978 with the implementation of
Proposition 13; and
WHEREAS, during the recession, library funding declined and library services were cut,
while the costs of books, materials and other services continued to increase, with the result that
the library needs of Sonoma County residents are not being met; and
WHEREAS, on July 18, 2016 the Library Commission adopted an ordinance to place a
special purpose tax measure on the ballot at the November 8, 2016, election, and the ordinance
will become effective if approved by two - thirds of the voters voting on the measure (Measure
Y); and
WHEREAS, the special tax proposed in the ordinance would be a one - eighth of one
percent (0.125 %) transactions and use tax imposed for ten (10) years on retail sales in the County
of Sonoma, beginning April 1, 2017; and
WHEREAS, increased tax proceeds will provide locally controlled funding that will be
used to address Library priorities such as restoring library hours that have been reduced by 25%
since 2011; maintain the Library's children's book collection; construct dedicated computer labs;
attract and retain qualified librarians; provide educational services for students including
homework help; and expand services for seniors and the disabled; and
Resolution No. 2016 -171 N.C.S. Page 1
WHEREAS, Measure Y provides financial accountability through a citizen's oversight
commission, annual reporting to the community and annual audits.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of
Petaluma expresses its support for a Measure Y, the proposed countywide 1/8 cent sales tax
measure to support the Sonoma County Library, and encourages voters in Petaluma and Sonoma
County to vote "yes" on the measure.
Under the power and authority conferred upon this Council by the Charter of said City.
REFERENCE: I hereby certify the foregoing Resolution was introduced and adopted by the pprcio) ed as to
Council of the City of Petaluma at a Regular meeting on the 7`h day of November, m:
2016, by the following vote:
City Attorney
AYES: Albertson, Barrett, Mayor Glass, Healy, Kearney, Vice Mayor King, Miller
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
ATTEST: bpj—,�
City Clerk Jayvor
Resolution No. 2016 -171 N.C.S. Page 2