Opinion: Easy Yes on Measure E

Save Our Libraries

SUBMITTED BY KARINA TALAMANTES & LISA KAPLAN
CITY OF SACRAMENTO COUNCILMEMBERS, REPRESENTING NATOMAS
FOR THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

As Councilmembers representing our beautiful and diverse Natomas community, we strongly support the City of Sacramento’s Measure E —an initiative to keep our libraries open five days a week without raising taxes. Our libraries are more than places to check out books; they are community hubs, providing education, resources, and safe spaces for residents of all ages and backgrounds.

Since 2004, Sacramento voters have supported our libraries through parcel taxes, starting with Measure X, which funded children’s programs, homework centers, and access to technology. Since then, our Senator Angelique Ashby has championed the renewal and passage of it and another measure that further stabilized funding, preventing deep cuts to services while expanding hours and maintaining high-quality programs.

Measure E would consolidate and extend the existing parcel taxes without increasing them. Landowners of single-family homes currently pay $54.50 annually, and rates are lower for multi-family units, apartments, and mobile homes. Measure E simply renews these rates without any increase, making the tax permanent unless repealed by voters.

The funds generated from the parcel tax are crucial to maintaining vital services. This includes programs for children, teens, and seniors, as well as regular open hours, library staffing, acquisition of books and technology, and access to media and educational resources.

Additionally, the revenue is subject to independent annual audits, ensuring transparency and accountability to taxpayers.

Our libraries rely on this funding for approximately 20% of their total budget. If Measure E does not pass, Sacramento libraries will face severe cuts in staffing, services, and operating hours. We could even see the closure of some branches. To pass, Measure E requires approval from two-thirds of voters on November 5, 2024.

By voting “Yes” on Measure E, we can safeguard the future of our libraries. This initiative is an investment in education, community, and the future of every resident in Natomas and across the city. Please join us in voting Yes to Measure E to keep our libraries open five days a week- without raising taxes. To learn more visit: www.yessacmeasuree.com.