In Mountain View, a heated debate is unfolding over Measure G, a proposed tax that residents claim is overly focused on financing a new $230 million police headquarters. Measure G, which would impose a 1.5% tax on property sales exceeding $6 million, is intended to generate revenue for a variety of city projects, including the police station. However, many residents argue that the measure prioritizes the police project at the expense of more pressing community needs, such as parks.
Opposition to Measure G
Residents Jim Zaorski, Joan MacDonald, Robin Lin, and Judy Levy are leading the charge against Measure G, arguing that the city’s emphasis on the police headquarters overlooks the need for more green spaces. They stress that while the police force deserves a modern facility, the city should not neglect its other responsibilities. The Monta Loma neighborhood, where most opponents reside, has only one major park that also serves as a school field, highlighting the area’s need for more recreational spaces.
Proponents Defend the Measure
Supporters of Measure G, including city officials and community leaders, argue that the tax revenue would fund a wide range of projects, not just the police headquarters. They point out that the funds would also go toward purchasing land for parks, planting trees, subsidizing housing, and improving bike lanes. Councilman Lucas Ramirez and others emphasize that the city can adjust spending priorities over time based on community needs.
Dispute Over Park Maintenance
The controversy is further fueled by recent conflicts between the city and the Mountain View Whisman School District over the maintenance and use of the Monta Loma park. Disagreements over control and access to the park have strained relations, with city workers accused of cutting school district padlocks to access the field. Despite these tensions, the city continues to pursue additional parkland, particularly in neighborhoods like Monta Loma, which have less green space.
Focus on Public Safety
City Manager Kimbra McCarthy acknowledged that parks were intentionally left out of the ballot question because polls indicated that funding for public safety had a better chance of passing. The proposed police headquarters, planned for 1000 Villa Street, would include a 16-bay shooting range and accommodate up to 243 employees, a significant increase from the current 165.
Financial Concerns and Potential Impact
Opponents of Measure G also express concerns about the financial impact on residents, particularly those who have lived in their homes for decades. They worry that the tax could result in substantial bills upon the sale of homes and that landlords might pass the costs onto tenants. City officials estimate the tax would have applied to 60 commercial and two residential properties over the past five years, generating an additional $9.5 million annually for the city’s general fund.
As the debate over Measure G continues, Mountain View residents must weigh the benefits of improved public safety facilities against the need for more parks and the potential financial burden the tax could impose.
