REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Action on a Resolution to Oppose Initiative 21-0042A1, "The Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act"
Report
COUNCIL PILLAR
Enhance Community Engagement and Transparency
BACKGROUND
On October 9, 2018, Council adopted Resolution No. 18-8611 to approve a Legislative Advocacy Position (LAP) Policy. The LAP Policy establishes clear guidelines for advancing City goals and positions through legislative review and advocacy at the regional, State, and federal levels of government and to provide guidance for City officials who serve on regional, state, and national boards, committees, and commissions when they are asked to review public policy matters and issues.
The LAP Policy provides that, "If a Council policy relative to the legislation does not exist, the issue is politically controversial, or there is significant local interest in the issue, the proposed legislation including a recommendation to support, remain neutral, or not support the legislation is brought to Council for consideration."
On May 10, 2022, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 22-9088 to oppose Initiative 21-0042 "The Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act", a proposition sponsored by the California Business Roundtable targeted for the November 2022 statewide ballot. The measure, (which ultimately did not garner enough signatures for the November 2022 ballot), would have amended the California Constitution to restrict the ability of the electorate as well as local and State governments, to approve or collect taxes, fees and other revenues.
On February 2, 2023, the Secretary of State announced that the proponents of the measure submitted enough valid signatures to qualify on the November 2024 statewide ballot. Staff and the City's legislative advocacy consultant, Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (Townsend) recommend the adoption of a new Resolution to oppose Initiative 21-0042A1 "The Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability ...
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