On the November 2024 ballot, Atascadero voters will have a pivotal decision about local infrastructure funding. The Atascadero Local Roads and Vital Services Funding Extension Measure, also known as Measure L-24, seeks to extend the current half-cent per dollar (0.5%) general sales tax that was originally approved by voters in 2014 under Measure F-14. This extension aims to continue supporting neighborhood road repairs and crucial infrastructure repairs and maintenance.
Measure L-24 will provide approximately $3 million annually for Atascadero if passed. This funding is dedicated to repairing neighborhood roads, maintaining aging infrastructure, and addressing other vital city needs. This tax is good for our local business community! Ensuring people can safely and easily get to businesses throughout Atascadero both to work in and shop from is paramount for the success of local businesses. Neighborhood roads take employees from their homes to their workplaces in our city. Maintaining infrastructure and roads so customers can access businesses is vital for economic activity and growth.
Since its approval in 2014, Measure F-14 has significantly impacted Atascadero’s infrastructure for the better. An example of its impact is the resurfacing of over 55 miles of neighborhood roads, substantially improving pavement quality and infrastructure stability, all done thanks to the funding by this measure.
Importantly, Measure L-24 will maintain the rigorous oversight established under Measure F-14. A nine-member Citizens’ Oversight Committee will review the use of these funds. The committee’s role is to ensure transparency and proper allocation of resources. In addition, all expenditures will be published annually and subjected to independent financial audits to guarantee that the revenue is used effectively.
Measure F-14 is set to expire on March 31, 2027, unless renewed. Measure L-24, The Atascadero Local Roads and Vital Services Funding Extension Measure, offers a crucial opportunity to extend this successful funding stream and continue the momentum of road and infrastructure improvements for our community. Roads and a well-maintained infrastructure are vital for economic activity, which is why The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce strongly supports Measure L-24.
