IE Business Daily Business news for the Inland Empire.
Measure O, the Apple Valley proposition meant to raise money for general services, has been defeated.
The proposed one percent sales tax, which supporters hoped would raise between $6 to $7 million a year for the town’s general fund, received 12,926 no votes and 6,667 yes votes, according to the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters.
That breaks down to 66.1 percent against to 33.9 percent in favor, with all 63 precincts reporting.
A number of community organizations and local leaders endorsed Measure O, including the Apple Valley Fire Protection District Board, San Bernardino County Sheriff John McMahon, the Sheriff’s Employee’s Benefit Association, the Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Jess Ranch Homeowners Association.
Had it passed, much of the revenue from Measure O would have been used to hire more police officers. Road construction, upgrades to parks and ballfields and community events also would have received funding, according to a recent statement on the town’s website.
I have researched and found that many people didn’t know what the increase in taxes was for. More information should have been given out to those affected so they would know what they are paying for.
Im happy it didn’t pass, the city has bad spending habits and has over spent on its police force with bad and poorly negotiated contracts. It’s no wonder the San Bernardino County Sheriff is in support he would directly benefit. We spend over 15 million dollars a year on our contract and it’s raising to 16 next year with out any more officers being added.
At least apple valley residence were smarter than victorville