With election day fast approaching, warnings of cuts to basic services have accompanied government requests for higher taxes across Southern California. Cities and municipalities staring down budget deficits have asked residents to pay more to plug the gaps.
Already struggling with high costs across the board, many residents have been pushing back.
Here’s what to know
More than 30 municipalities or districts across Los Angeles and Orange counties have sought voter approval for tax measures on the November ballot, according to LAist. Utility and parcel taxes are among the proposals, alongside levies on businesses, hotel stays, and retail sales. Communities considering the measures range from San Clemente to Culver City.
For Southern California households looking to offset rising costs, going solar is one of the best ways to save money on home energy. Palmetto is running an exclusive offer for Southern California residents that allows customers to save an average of 40% on their electric bills with $0 down.
Rising costs for governments
As households face rising costs on everything from energy to insurance to essentials, local governments are facing many of the same pressures. Staff pension obligations, infrastructure work, and insurance premiums all have been driving local governments’ requests for additional funding, according to LAist. In recent years, those expenses have climbed while revenues have stagnated…