Measure J | Securing El Cajon's Future
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What You Need to Know Before You Vote in November 2024
Measure J
A Renewal of Essential Services in El Cajon
Originally passed in 2008, Measure J added a half-cent sales tax that has been critical in funding essential services across the City. From police and fire departments to paramedics and public safety programs, Measure J provides the financial support necessary to maintain a safe and thriving community.
As the November 2024 election approaches, residents will consider on the renewal of Measure J. This continuation of revenue has been vital to keeping El Cajon’s heartbeat steady. The funds generated by Measure J amount to 14% of the City's General Fund, making it an indispensable resource for maintaining the services that residents rely on every day.
How are the funds from J currently supporting your City?
2008
Voter Approved
The ½¢ sales tax was initially approved by voters in 2008 with a 20-year sunset clause.
$13.5
General Fund
The current funds from J make up $13.5 million of El Cajon's General Fund budget.
75%
Public Safety
The bulk of the funds from Measure J are used to fund fire, paramedics and police personnel.
55+
Staff Positions
Currently, J supports 55 City staff positions, including 30 police officers and 9 firefighters.
The importance of Measure J cannot be overstated. The revenue it generates—approximately $13.5 million annually—directly supports the City’s essential services. In fact, 75% of every dollar from Measure J goes directly to public safety. This includes funding for the Police Department, which receives 50% of the revenue, and the Fire Department, which accounts for 25%.
Without Measure J, the City of El Cajon would face severe budget cuts that could result in the reduction or elimination of critical services. These cuts would not just be a matter of inconvenience—they would fundamentally alter the safety and well-being of our community. The potential consequences include the closure of fire stations, significant reductions in police patrols, and the shutdown of community services that residents depend on.
The Impact of J
Understanding the Financial Landscape in El Cajon.
El Cajon faces unique financial challenges that make Measure J crucial for the City’s future. Unlike wealthier neighboring cities, El Cajon receives a significantly lower share of property tax revenue. This disparity is rooted in historical property tax inequalities and is compounded by the City’s high percentage of affordable and multi-family housing.
These factors create a double-edged sword: while the City’s expenses are higher due to the demands on public safety services, its revenue from property taxes is much lower. As a result, El Cajon must rely heavily on other revenue streams to bridge the financial gap.
Measure J plays a critical role in addressing these financial disparities by providing the necessary revenue to support public safety and other essential services. Without it, the City would be forced to make difficult decisions that could have long-lasting impacts on our community.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Measure J adds a ½ cent to every dollar spent in El Cajon. For example, if you buy a $12 bottle of laundry detergent, you would pay an additional 6 cents in tax. It’s important to note that necessities such as groceries, diapers, and prescription drugs are exempt from this tax.
El Cajon’s General Reserve Fund, which is currently around $60 million, is intended for emergencies, not day-to-day expenses. Without Measure J, these reserves would be depleted in less than four years, leaving the City vulnerable in times of crisis.
Unfortunately, no. Due to the constraints of Proposition 13, El Cajon’s property tax revenue is far less than that of wealthier cities. This structural disadvantage makes Measure J essential for maintaining the City’s financial stability.
Not realistically. Replacing Measure J’s revenue would require an enormous surge in business growth—equivalent to increasing the City’s retail sector by 50%. This level of growth is implausible given the current economic conditions.
Absolutely. El Cajon has earned accolades for financial transparency and efficient management. Independent audits consistently affirm the City’s prudent stewardship of taxpayer dollars.
Yes. Measure J includes an independent oversight committee made up of residents, as well as individuals selected by the San Diego Taxpayers Association and a local business advocacy organization. The measure also has a twenty-year expiration clause, ensuring accountability and fiscal responsibility.
The Broader Context
El Cajon is not alone in its reliance on sales tax measures to fund essential services. Many cities across San Diego County have implemented similar measures to maintain public safety and community programs.
Cities with a 1¢ Sales Tax
Chula Vista, Del Mar, National City, and Solana Beach
Cities with a ¾¢ Sales Tax
La Mesa
Cities with a ½¢ Sales Tax
El Cajon, Oceanside, Vista
Cities with a Sales Tax Ballot Initiative for 2024
Encinitas (1¢), Escondido (1¢), Lemon Grove (1¢), San Diego (1¢), San Marcos (1¢), and Santee (½¢)