The Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District (AC Transit) has announced that with 100 percent precincts reporting, AC Transit’s ballot Measure C1 has received an overwhelming majority vote in both Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.
In Alameda County, Measure C1 garnered 82 percent of total votes cast. Measure C1’s approval was equally impressive in Western Contra Costa County, securing more than 78 percent of the yes vote.
“Our seniors have sought greater independence, commuters need better service to the places they work, and East Bay children need reliable transport to schools,” said AC Transit Board President, H. E. Christian Peeples. “So this astounding yes vote on Measure C1, is in fact a resounding yes to AC Transit in meeting these needs for the next two decades.”
Measure C1 is neither a new tax nor will its approval raise the current $8 per month parcel tax. Instead, the voter approved renewal will raise $30 million per year for a total of $600 million by the year 2039. Every dollar is vitally needed to support operations and maintenance.
“What this ‘yes’ vote means is that AC Transit will be able to count on a stable funding source, that is not subject to the state of the economy,” said AC Transit’s General Manager, Michael Hursh. “An assurance of funding for 20 years ensures long term planning and that AC Transit can continue to provide safe, clean and reliable buses while preparing for an exciting future.”
In fact, Measure C1 provides funding support for:
- Transportation options that allow for independence and mobility for seniors and persons with disabilities.
- Transportation to areas where people work and attend schools.
- Reduced greenhouse gas emissions and promotes alternatives to driving.
- Bus service reliability and on-time performance.
- Continued support of bus operations and maintenance.
AC Transit’s parcel tax was first approved in 2002 with over 68% support. The parcel tax was then extended in 2004 with nearly 73% support, and reauthorized in 2008 with 72% voter approval. Consistent with existing practice, the parcel tax will be fiducially monitored by an independent five-member citizen oversight committee – which oversees audits to assure that these funds are spent for the purposes identified in the measure.
