Measure W Funds Released by Board of Supervisors

Mayor Barbara Lee joined the public to encourage the Board of Supervisors to release Measure W funds.

Measure W, passed narrowly by Alameda County voters in 2020, raised our sales tax from 9.25% to 9.50% for ten years.  The use of proceeds, while not legally restricted, was expected to address the needs of our unhoused population.

The funds were collected and held in escrow pending resolution of a lawsuit against the measure.  The lawsuit was resolved in the County’s favor, and the Board of Supervisors voted in July to allocate anticipated funds – at least $1.8 billion over 10 years ending in 2031 - as follows:

·       $170 million Reserve to cover ongoing programs in case of an unexpected drop in revenue.

·       80% of the remainder, or about $1.3 billion, to a Home Together Fund for homelessness prevention, shelter expansion, supportive housing, rental subsidies, intake system improvement, etc.

·       20%, or about $330 million, to an Essential Services Fund supporting food security, senior care, behavioral health, immigrant and LGBTQ+ services, and other safety-net programs.

ICJJ especially cares about Measure W funding as it will potentially make housing and support services available to system-impacted people, ensuring their stability and reducing their chances of returning to jail or prison.