Oakland voters consider Measure A for budget deficit funding

Oakland voters will decide on Measure A in a special election on April 15. If approved, the measure would add a half-percent sales tax, raising about $30 million annually to help address projected budget deficits of $140 million next year and $126 million in 2027. The proposed tax would increase Oakland's sales tax rate to 10.75%, aligning it with neighboring cities. The funds would go to the city's general fund, potentially supporting various services, including public safety and infrastructure, but critics argue it may not sufficiently address the city's structural budget issues. The measure comes amid a financial crisis, with recent layoffs and budget cuts already implemented. Mayoral candidates Barbara Lee and Loren Taylor support the tax, while concerns about its regressive nature and lack of specific enforcement regulations have been raised by opponents.