AgdaPkt 2003-12-08 - Laserfiche WebLink

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LP A -2 If placed on the ballot and approved by the electorate, this measure will give the voters the ultimate say on whether their local tax funds may be spent for State services. The measure will require a simple majority voter approval of any proposed State law that reduces the sales, property, or Vehicle License Fee (VLF) funds of cities, counties, or special districts. There is reasonable flexibility built -in to the measure which would allow a reduction in the VLF so long as it is replaced with substitute revenues, i.e., a "backfill." This measure would also clarify the State's duty to reimburse local governments in a timely manner for new mandated programs or mandated higher levels of service, thus protecting local governments from hidden costs shifts. This measure will not raise tax rates or fees; it will not repeal laws that the State has already passed; it will not require the return of property taxes already taken by the State, nor will it affect funding for education; and, it will not prevent structural reform of the fiscal system — in fact, it simply requires that needed structural changes be planned collaboratively by State and local leaders, and be approved by the voters. The League is seeking active support for this measure from cities, counties, and special districts. Our early support for placing this measure on the November 2, 2004 ballot will help lend credibility and authority to the grassroots efforts being undertaken by the League and its partners to secure sufficient signatures to qualify for the ballot. It is hoped that our City's support, along with that of other local governments throughout California, will ultimately result in a successful ballot measure and a strong level of protection of our local funds from further depletion by the State. Alternative The Council could choose not to adopt this resolution and therefore not go on record in support of providing California voters with a viable means of protecting local funds from seizure by the State. Fiscal Impact There is no fiscal impact associated with the adoption of this resolution. 1 Malcolm Smith Magd Gonzalez d Everett Public Communications Assistant to the City Manager City Manager Manager Attachments Draft Resolution League of California Cities' questions and answers sheet about the proposed "Local Taxpayers and Public Safety Protection Act" Text of the proposed "Local Taxpayers and Public Safety Protection Act"