by El Reportero Staff
San Francisco voters approved two major ballot measures and rejected two competing tax proposals in the June 2 election, signaling support for public safety investments while expressing concerns about changes to the city’s tax structure.
The strongest showing came from Proposition A, a $535 million bond measure that passed with approximately 77 percent of the vote. The measure will provide funding for earthquake preparedness and emergency response projects throughout the city, including upgrades to fire stations, police facilities, emergency water systems, and other critical infrastructure.
City leaders have argued that many public safety facilities require seismic improvements to remain operational following a major earthquake. Supporters said the bond measure represents a long-term investment in protecting residents and ensuring that emergency services can continue functioning during disasters.
Voters also approved Proposition B, which establishes lifetime term limits for San Francisco mayors and members of the Board of Supervisors. The measure passed by a margin of roughly 55 percent to 45 percent.
Under the new rules, mayors and supervisors will be limited to two consecutive four-year terms in office. Advocates said the measure will encourage new leadership and prevent career politicians from holding power indefinitely. Critics argued that voters already have the ability to replace elected officials through regular elections and that experience in office can benefit city government.
Meanwhile, voters rejected two competing tax proposals that generated significant debate among business leaders, labor organizations, and city officials.
Proposition C, supported by many business groups, sought to reduce taxes for numerous companies by increasing exemptions and modifying portions of the city’s business tax system. Supporters argued the measure would help businesses recover from economic challenges and encourage investment in San Francisco. The proposal was defeated by approximately 64 percent to 36 percent.
Proposition D, known as the “Overpaid CEO Tax,” would have increased taxes on large corporations whose top executives earn at least 100 times more than their average employees. Supporters said the measure could generate substantial revenue for city services and help address budget pressures. Opponents warned that higher taxes could discourage companies from remaining or expanding in San Francisco. Voters rejected the measure by a margin of about 55 percent to 45 percent.
Because both tax measures failed, San Francisco officials must continue searching for solutions to address an estimated budget deficit exceeding $600 million. The election results leave city leaders with difficult financial decisions in the months ahead as they seek to balance public services, economic growth, and fiscal stability.
Sources: San Francisco Department of Elections, KTVU, NBC Bay Area, KQED, Axios San Francisco.
