With less than a week remaining until the November General Election, Lassen County is banking on a proposed 1% sales tax increase to fund local law enforcement and public safety.
District 1 Supervisor Chris Gallagher, in an interview with Sierra Daily News, stated that if approved, all funds from this measure, estimated at $1.5 million, would be “guaranteed” to support law enforcement and public safety. Gallagher noted this includes the District Attorney’s Office, Sheriff’s Office, and Code Enforcement, but could also extend to special fire districts and the Lassen Office of Emergency Services if the Board of Supervisors so decides.
A similar measure appeared on a previous ballot but failed to pass as voters expressed concern over spending transparency. This new measure specifically targets public safety funding; however, this change requires a two-thirds voter approval threshold for passage, presenting a unique challenge.
Lassen County remains one of the few in California without a tax rate above 8%. Meanwhile, the city of Susanville recently raised its own sales tax to 8.25%, generating significant revenue for public safety departments. The county’s proposed measure will not affect residents within Susanville’s city limits, as it only applies to unincorporated areas, creating a uniform 8.25% sales tax rate across both city and county.
Gallagher encourages voters to review the impartial analysis provided by county counsel to thoroughly understand the proposed tax increase.
