Albany MEASURE P1 2016

Sidewalk Repair Special Parcel Tax

2/3 Super majority vote required

The Question:  To repair and upgrade aging and deteriorating public sidewalks and remove obstructions so that Albany sidewalks are safe and accessible by pedestrians, shall the City of Albany enact a special parcel tax for 10 years?

The Situation:  On June 20, 2016, the City Council adopted a new Sidewalk Policy. Prior to the adoption to this new policy,  Albany Municipal Code made property owners solely responsible for the maintenance of the sidewalks next to their property. Under the new Policy, the City will take responsibility for making repairs and upgrades to existing sidewalks and for removing safety hazards and mobility obstructions. The long-term maintenance obligation will remain with property owners. The City will prioritize sidewalk work annually.

The Proposal:   The City will take responsibility for making repairs and upgrades to existing sidewalks and for removing safety hazards and mobility obstructions. The long-term maintenance obligation will remain with property owners.

Fiscal Effect:   The special rate is determined and adjusted annually ($15 per apartment or condominium and $38 per house, with exemptions for low-income home owners and a rebate for low-income home renters) providing approximately $203,000 annually, with annual public reports and all proceeds to be spent in Albany.  It will be collected by Alameda County at the same time as property taxes.  All revenue from the tax would be placed into a special account and restricted to sidewalk maintenance and obstruction removal and related administrative costs.

Supporters Say:   

  • This small parcel tax, will enable the city to address the backlog of repairs over the next decade, fixing the most severe problems first.
  • Great sidewalks benefit our whole community.
  • Safe sidewalks are essential for our wellbeing and ability to get where they need to go.

Opponents Say:   No Argument filed by the Opposition.

A “Yes” vote means:  A “Yes” vote is a vote in favor of the tax.

A “No” vote means:  A “No” vote is a vote against the tax.