Labor union pledges $200,000 for possible Oakland tax measure

Perhaps you are still digesting your Thanksgiving leftovers, however are you already excited about subsequent yr’s native elections?

Some candidates and curiosity teams have achieved so.

Yesterday, Pamela Worth – sure, the not too long ago recalled district lawyer – introduced she is operating for re-election. And in the present day, SEIU Native 1021, the union representing roughly 2,000 metropolis staff, reported that it has put aside an enormous amount of cash to assist a metropolis parcel tax measure that’s not but assured a spot on the poll subsequent yr.

Oakland officers are strongly contemplating introducing a brand new tax measure within the June main election to make up for the $40 million shortfall. The concept dates again to the finances proposed earlier this yr by then-Interim Mayor Kevin Jenkins and permitted by the Metropolis Council within the spring.

In keeping with the town’s calculations, this complete lacking quantity could possibly be elevated by rising taxes on property homeowners by $150 to $220 per yr, relying on the kind of property. In April, Oakland voters additionally permitted a gross sales tax enhance to handle the town’s finances deficit.

Nevertheless it could possibly be a political threat to ask property homeowners — who already pay different taxes for public security, libraries and extra — to lift their taxes once more.

Town council has mentioned numerous different choices, together with combining a parcel tax with different methods to generate income.

Even with out the measure being finalized or named, the SEIU 1021 committee, referred to as Oaklanders for a Protected, Clear and Wholesome Metropolis, made the $200,000 contribution in assist of it.

A union spokesman didn’t instantly reply to a request for remark.

Union members stand to undergo main losses as Oakland faces monetary issues. The federal government initially thought of 100 layoffs this yr, however in the end solely lower vacant positions within the closing finances. SEIU 1021 and three different metropolis unions reached contract agreements with Oakland in September.

The Metropolis Council is contemplating numerous different poll measures for 2026, together with one that will reform the town constitution to vary the position of mayor and council members; a measure to present momentary tax breaks to small and new firms; and one that will make minor adjustments to a police and fire brigade pension fund.