Frequently Asked Questions

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1. What is Measure O?

The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to place Measure O – the Humboldt County Public Safety and Essential Services Renewal Measure – on the November 6, 2018 ballot to maintain locally-controlled funding for essential County services, without raising tax rates.

2. Why was Measure O placed on the ballot?

Over the past 25 years, $368 million in State takeaways continues to affect the County’s budget. Measure O would continue existing, voter-approved locally-controlled funding that cannot be taken by Sacramento. Measure O will maintain current essential services, including:

• Maintaining 911 emergency response times
• Providing services for the victims of child abuse
• Maintaining rural ambulance and fire protection services
• Providing additional mental health services for children
• Ensuring there are sheriff’s deputies on-duty 24 hours a day
• Repairing deteriorating roads

3. How else will Measure O continue protecting public safety?

Despite limited funding, volunteer fire departments and firefighters play critical roles in protecting life and property here in Humboldt County. Measure O will continue to support these volunteers and maintain resources and training that better – and more safely – protect County residents.

4. How does Measure O help kids stay safe?

Protective and counseling services for the victims and witnesses of child abuse have been severely reduced in recent years. Measure O will restore these services and protect children that have been victims of horrible crimes. 

5. What does Measure O cost?

Measure O would continue the existing, voter-approved one-half cent sales tax, with no increase in tax rate. Measure O is not applied to prescription medicine or food purchased as groceries, and visitors to our region also pay the cost.  

6. Is Measure O fiscally accountable?

Yes. Measure O continues to require community and fiscal accountability, including financial audits and an Independent Citizens’ Advisory Committee will continue to review Measure O funds to ensure they are spent efficiently on public priorities. By, law all Measure O funding must be spent locally, and none can be taken by the state. 

7. When is the election?

Tuesday, November 6, 2018. To register to vote, visit http://registertovote.ca.gov//

8. Where can I get more information about Measure O?

The county will continue to keep the community informed about Measure O. For more information, please visit the County website humboldtgov.org/MeasureO.