Measure X: Vote to Provide a Special Library Parcel Tax for the Pomona Public Library

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Impartial analysis from Arnold M. Alvarez-Giasman, City Attorney

Measure "X" would impose a "Special library Parcel Tax"

• on each taxable parcel of property, 
• improved or 
• unimproved, 
• within the boundaries of the City, 
• at a rate of $38.00 per parcel and/or residential unit 
• beginning in the 2013-14 Fiscal Year. 

The tax is applied on a uniform basis to all parcels, regardless of whether such parcels are

• commercial, 
• residential or 
• other uses, 
• with the exception of governmental or exempted uses. 

If adopted, the measure would result in

• estimated revenues of $1,634,000 dedicated solely to library services. 
• "library services" must be offered at least 38 hours per week over at least five (5) days per week. 
• library operating and maintaining equipment
• library personnel salaries, a
• any incidental expenses incurred in the administration of the tax. 

If the City reduces library hours below 38 hours per week, the City may not levy the special parcel tax for the following year.

If Measure "X" is adopted,

• tax revenues collected must be kept in a separate fund from the City's general fund, 
• may not be used for any other purpose. \
• requires an independent auditor prepare a report and present such report to the City Council each year by December 31. 

In order to be adopted, the measure must be approved by two-thirds (2/3s) of the voters.

If approved, the special parcel tax will take effect July 1, 2013.

Beginning on July 1, 2014, 

• $38.00 parcel tax rate may be adjusted annually for inflation, according to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment for each year,
• shall not exceed a five percent (5%) adjustment and no less than zero percent (0%) adjustment for any single year. 

The measure also proposes an increase to the City's appropriations limit pursuant to state law.

Related posts:
Pomona Public Library back in business after 2 1/2 week closure.  (9/5/2012)
Library adjusts to new normal.  (8/25/2012)
Library parcel tax on November 6 ballot.  (8/9/2012)
You'll see less.  (8/5/2012)
What a way to celebrate 100 years of service.  (7/23/2012)
Keeping up with the Pomona Public Library.  (7/8/2012)
The Pomona Public Library gets a reprieve from the city council. 6/27/2012)
Best blog name ever (?) and more on the Pomona Public Library.  (6/22/2012)
David Allen is now a card-carrying Pomona Public Library supporter.  6/22/2012)
Vote to close Pomona library postponed to June 25.  (6/22/2012)
Pomona library bears brunt of layoffs.  (6/14/2012)