Dear Editor,
Safe streets, dependable emergency services, and well-maintained public spaces take investment. That’s why we’re voting yes on Measure GG.
Mayor Betsy Andersen recently shared a number that puts the challenge in perspective: of every dollar we pay in base property taxes, just 18 cents comes back to the City of Piedmont. Piedmont also brings in less revenue per resident than Oakland, Berkeley, or Emeryville. With no significant commercial or retail tax base, we have limited ways to fund our police, firefighters, parks, streets, and aging infrastructure.
Measure GG, unanimously endorsed by our mayor, all members of the City Council, and ten former Mayors, would raise the one-time real estate transfer tax from 1.3% to 1.75%, bringing it closer to rates in surrounding communities. Paid when real property is sold, the tax can be split between buyer and seller. The increase would generate an estimated $1.5 million annually for essential city services and maintenance.
We believe this is a practical investment in the community we love and call home. Please join us in voting yes on Measure GG.
–Dan and Jill Saper
