Wine Country Times

City of Petaluma issued the following announcement on Nov. 6.

As the vote count continues, it seems to be confirmed that the citizens of Petaluma voted in favor of enacting Measure U, that is, a one-cent increase in the sales tax that will serve to finance the priorities of the community with reliable funds. and locally controlled, outside the scope of the State of California. When enacted, Measure U will ensure that our firefighters can respond quickly to any emergency with the proper personnel and equipment, that we will be able to repair our streets and potholes so that our roads are safe for residents and first responders, and that we will be able to support the disaster response efforts and much more.

"We are grateful to our community for supporting Measure U and to the thousands of residents who participated in the recent elections," said Peggy Flynn, City Manager or City Administrator. “We will keep our community informed and involved as we maintain vital services and discuss what the local recovery efforts and fiscal stability will be. "We will strive to be the City" full-service "(complete service) that our community needs and deserves."

For the past two years, the community has been involved with the City in setting goals and priorities, and the City continues to work and progress toward realizing those priorities. As our world has radically changed in the last eight months, we recognize that the needs of our community have expanded. We are focused on protecting and guiding our community through a global pandemic while tackling climate threats at the local level. We want to support our residents and local businesses in whatever way we can.

In keeping with our tradition of prudent fiscal management, Measure U requires “Independent Citizen Oversight”, with priorities based on community input, financial audits, and public disclosure. All Measure U funds will remain in Petaluma and the State will not be able to take any of them.

Measure U entered the ballot in these elections after months of community participation. More than 3,000 residents participated in workshops and responded to our surveys. Residents identified the top priorities, which are to follow:

-Preparedness for public health emergencies, wildfires and natural disasters

-Maintain 911 emergency response times and fire prevention and protection

-Ensure 24-hour service from police and fire personnel

-Keep public areas safe and clean

-Repair of streets, highways and potholes

-Support for local businesses during economic recovery

Original source can be found here.