San Rafael Transfer-Tax Increase Goes to Voters

The ballot measure

A measure to substantially increase San Rafael’s property transfer tax is on the ballot. The proposal is intended to help the city address a budget deficit.

Property transfer taxes are charged when real estate changes ownership. The measure would change the amount collected by San Rafael, but the ballot title does not state the proposed rate, the expected revenue or the size of the deficit.

What voters are deciding

The question before voters is whether to approve the higher transfer tax. The measure concerns city revenue and does not involve candidates or a candidate race.

The tax would apply when covered property transactions take place. Its effect would depend on the final ballot language and the outcome of the vote. SFGATE reported on the proposal and its role in the city’s budget discussion.

What comes next

Voters will consider the measure through the ballot process. The official ballot materials will establish the precise tax change and the rules for implementation if voters approve it.