A Special Meeting of the Merced Board of Supervisors is hereby noticed and called for Tuesday, August 4, 2020, at 10:00 a.m, in the chambers of the Board of Supervisors located at 2222 M Street in the third.

The meeting consists of a proposed General Sales Tax Measure to establish a one half (½) cent sales tax to be placed on November 3, 2020, Ballot for Voter Approval through the adoption of a resolution establishing retail transactions and use tax for a period of 15 years; consolidate said election with the Statewide General Election and permit the Elections Department to provide elections services (4/5 vote required.

The COVID-19 related economic downturn has impacted Merced County’s budget and ability to provide essential programs and services. As a result, the County is focused on maintaining vital services to ensure the health and safety of our local communities during the recovery ahead.

The County cannot rely on receiving adequate stimulus funding from the state or federal government for the assistance our
residents, farmers, and businesses need.

The cost of putting this measure on the ballot is estimated to be similar to Measure V, which was approximately $126,000 and will be included in the Elections Department’s
budget. Additional costs for community outreach and education are estimated to be $158,000. Revenues from a ½ cent sales tax would generate approximately $17,000,000 annually. (See full Agenda item for more information)

Based on guidance from the California Department of Public Health and the California Governor’s Office, in order to minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the County will conduct business in compliance with social distancing requirements with seating in the Board’s chambers for the public limited to 25. The County will also provide some overflow space on a first-come first-served basis.