For Measure GG

Dear Editor,

As we head towards the home stretch of the upcoming November 3rd election, and for those who have not yet decided, let me share with you my thoughts of why I support Measure GG.

As you may be aware, the City of Piedmont’s annual budget is heavily dependent on real estate-related taxes, including transfer taxes, which account for about 10% of the City’s General Fund budget. The transfer tax, which is assessed only when one’s Piedmont property is sold, has not changed since 1993. One good year of transfer taxes does not change the structure of the City’s annual budget.

At the City Council’s direction, the Budget Advisory and Financial Planning (BAFP) committee explored options in addressing the City’s long-term fiscal needs of maintaining its services and addressing its aging facilities and infrastructure. As one who was instrumental in the establishment of the BAFP committee, it is an open and transparent budget and planning process with all hearings open to the public. BAFP has a longterm view in the planning process and strongly recommended an increase in the City’s transfer tax rate to 1.75% of the sales price, which is within the range of other Alameda County cities. If passed, Measure GG will generate an estimated $1.5 million per year to support general City services.

Please join me in supporting Measure GG.

–John Chiang, former Piedmont Mayor