FAQ’s
1. HOW DOES MEASURE J AFFECT MY SHOPPING? Measure J adds a ½ cent to every dollar spent. So, buying a $12 bottle of laundry detergent adds 6 cents. Necessities such as groceries, diapers and prescription drugs will not be taxed. 2. WHY NOT USE THE CITY’S RESERVES? El Cajon’s General Reserve Fund, sitting at about $60 million, would be drained in less than four years without Measure J. These reserves are for emergencies, not day-to-day expenses.
3. CAN PROPERTY TAXES COVER THE GAP? Unfortunately, no. El Cajon’s property tax
revenue, constrained by Prop 13, is far less than that of wealthier cities. This structural disadvantage makes Measure J crucial. 4. COULD ECONOMIC GROWTH REPLACE MEASURE J REVENUE? Not realistically. To replace Measure J’s revenue, the City would need an implausible surge in business growth, equating to growing its retail sector by 50%. 5. IS THE CITY FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE WITH MEASURE J FUNDS? Absolutely. El Cajon has earned accolades for financial transparency and efficient management. Independent audits consistently affirm the City’s prudent stewardship of taxpayer dollars. 6. ARE THERE TAXPAYER PROTECTIONS BUILT INTO MEASURE J? Yes. Measure J includes an independent oversight committee made up of residents and individuals selected by the San Diego Taxpayers Association and a local business advocacy organization. It also includes a twenty-year expiration clause, ensuring accountability and fiscal responsibility.
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AUTUMN ISSUE 2024 • MY EL CAJON
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