Measure L

City of Alameda GO Bond Measure

Measure L would allow the City of Alameda to issue $300,000,000 in bonds, paid for by a 0.049% ($49/$100,000) tax on assessed property value (not current appraised value) to prepare for emergencies, earthquakes and sea-level rise; prevent flooded tubes; repair potholes; keep streets safe and accessible; maintain response to fires, accidents, and medical emergencies; prevent Bay pollution; and protect shorelines. 

This measure requires approval by two-thirds of voters voting on the measure to pass.

Fiscal Impact: Measure L will raise approximately $19,000,000 annually.

Next Alameda County Measure: Measure M

See Endorsements for Measure L
Background

Alameda’s aging infrastructure is increasingly vulnerable to flooding, earthquakes, severe weather, and sea level rise. To keep our neighborhoods safe and functional, the City is working to fund critical repairs before they become even more expensive. Alameda’s quality of life depends on infrastructure that works. As an island community, we are on the front lines of rising seas. Our outdated storm drains are too small for today’s conditions, causing more frequent street flooding during storms and high tides. Our fire stations were built decades ago and don’t meet today’s seismic safety standards, leaving us vulnerable in a major earthquake. Potholes, cracked sidewalks, and traffic safety needs make it harder for everyone — especially older adults, students, and people with disabilities — to get around safely.

Proposal

If approved, Measure L would increase property taxes to finance some or all of the costs of the Improvements. The authorized Improvements also include all work, facilities and expenditures necessary and incidental to the projects identified as part of the Improvements.

The following categories of capital improvement projects are authorized:

  • Preventing Flooding and Combating Sea-Level Rise
  • Preparing for Earthquakes and Emergencies
  • Maintaining Rapid Response to Fires, Accidents, and Medical Emergencies
  • Repairing Potholes and Keeping Streets Safe and Accessible
  • Keeping Pollution Out of the Bay

The final costs, locations, designs, layouts and other components of the Improvements will be determined as plans are finalized, construction bids are awarded, and projects are completed. Therefore, the City Council cannot guarantee that the Bonds will provide sufficient funds to allow completion of all needed Improvements.

The local bond measure would require strong fiscal accountability protections and oversight. If approved by voters: All funds would stay local for Alameda, a detailed project list outlines what projects funds can be used for, an independent citizens’ oversight committee and mandatory annual audits would ensure all funds are spent as promised, and no funds would be used to increase salaries or pensions.

Source: City of Alameda - Measure L

Alameda County Election Resources