I’m not sure what to make of Measure J. This is the measure asking the citizens of San Luis Obispo County to pay an additional half-cent in sales tax for the next nine years. The monies are to be used for transportation and transit. On the one hand, I agree that county roads and bridges need repair or replacement. On the other, is this how a large portion of the tax revenue will be spent? I’m concerned that significant taxes may be diverted to subsidize the San Luis Obispo Dalidio development-Prado Road overpass, and the Atascadero Walmart development-Del Rio intersection. Measure J is being advertised as a potential benefit for all county residents. The developers would be the primary beneficiaries for these projects. I would like to see the media investigate this issue. New Times, this is right up your alley. I would also like the county, in the interest of open and transparent government, to clarify its position. Until I have more information about the possible true nature of Measure J, I’m voting no.
— Steve Ryburn – Atascadero
This article appears in Sep 22-29, 2016.
