On June 2, Salinas City Council approved placing a Measure G renewal on the Nov. 3, 2026 ballot.
“It’s important to note this is not a tax increase,” Mayor Dennis Donohue said. The measure will aim to extend the tax indefinitely, with revenues subject to review by a citizens’ oversight committee.
Originally set to expire in 2030, the tax has been instrumental in sustaining services amid financial pressures, according to Salinas City Manager Rene Mendez. In recent years, the City of Salinas grappled with a forecasted $47 million budget shortfall, or 21 percent, if an extension does not pass. Since 2024, city staff and the finance committee have underscored the necessity of Measure G to bridge funding gaps and stabilize the city's finances.
Since its approval by voters in 2014, Measure G—a 1-cent transactions and use tax—has generated over $30 million annually to support city operations, capital projects and maintain 106.5 staff positions, according to a city staff analysis. This includes 10 positions in community development, five positions in the finance department, seven in the fire department, 29 in the police department and 38 in public works, to name a few.
Eight residents spoke during public comment on this matter, including Peter Szalai, who is running for mayor this year. “Measure G is no longer optional, without renewal police response times will worsen. Infrastructure will slow and parks and neighborhoods will deteriorate,” Szalai said. “The renewal alone is not enough, the city must restore trust by focusing Measure G dollars on the visible poor services residents rely on every day and by demonstrating greater transparency and accountability.”
Salinas City Council also approved placing a referendum vote on four rent-related ordinances on the Nov. 3 ballot.