REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Consider Adoption of a Resolution to Oppose Initiative 21-0042A1 Sponsored by the California Business Roundtable, Also Known as "The Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act," Which has Qualified for the November 2024 Ballot
Report
BACKGROUND
On February 1, 2023, the "Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act," or AG# 21-0042A1, qualified for the November 2024 ballot. This proposition would significantly jeopardize the City's ability to provide funding for essential services and infrastructure for Sunnyvale residents and businesses.
The League of California Cities, along with a broad coalition of local governments, labor and public safety leaders, infrastructure advocates, and businesses, strongly opposes this initiative and has requested that cities adopt a resolution in opposition of the Act. Local government revenue-raising authority is currently substantially restricted by state statute and constitutional provisions, including the voter approved provisions of Proposition 13 of 1978, Proposition 218 of 1996, and Proposition 26 of 2010. The Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act adds and expands restrictions on voters and local government tax and fee authority.
EXISTING POLICY
Council Policy 7.0 B. (3) Long-term Advocacy Positions - Planning and Management - Fiscal Management: Oppose any legislation that reduces or erodes local revenues or local control.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The action being considered does not constitute a "project" with the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15378 (a) as it has no potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.
DISCUSSION
The Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act (Act) would amend the California Constitution with provisions that limit voters' authority and input, adop...
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