Contra Costa’s Newest “Just Five Years” Tax Measure Goes Before Voters

In the upcoming June 2 election, Contra Costa County voters will decide whether to approve Measure B, a proposed sales tax expected to generate approximately $150 million annually for county services.

If approved, Measure B would add a five-eighth-cent sales tax in both incorporated and unincorporated areas of the county for five years. The measure would be added on top of the existing half-cent Measure X sales tax approved by voters in 2020, which remains in effect through 2041.

As a general tax measure, Measure B requires a simple majority vote to pass.

The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors voted in March to place the measure on the ballot, citing concerns about potential reductions in federal funding and the possible impact on county programs and services. According to the county’s impartial analysis, revenue generated by Measure B would be deposited into the county’s general fund and could be used for a variety of governmental purposes.

The measure also calls for annual audits of tax revenue and expenditures, along with the creation of a five-member fiscal oversight committee.

Following the board’s decision, two county voters filed a legal challenge over the wording of the ballot question, arguing that certain language favored the measure. A Contra Costa County Superior Court judge later ordered revisions to remove descriptive terms including “deep” cuts and “critical” services.

Supporters of Measure B, including Supervisor John Gioia and representatives of labor organizations, say the measure would provide temporary funding over five years to help maintain county programs and services. They point to county estimates projecting significant financial impacts tied to anticipated federal funding reductions.

Opponents, including members of the Contra Costa Taxpayers Association and other residents, argue the county should prioritize existing revenues and spending before approving an additional sales tax. Critics also note that Measure X continues to generate more revenue annually than originally projected.