Friday, August 12, 2005

The council approved calling a special election to ask voters whether to raise Richmond's sales tax by 0.5%, from 8.75% to 9.25%. If voters approve, residents would pay an extra 50 cents for every $100 spent on taxable items.

The council scheduled the sales tax election for November 8, 2005, combining it with a statewide election. The combined election approach saves money on polling places and staff costs compared to holding a separate city election.

The council also requested Contra Costa County to officially combine the city's special election with the state election on the same date. This coordination requires county approval to finalize the cost-saving arrangement.