07/26/2026
PROVE IT OR LOSE IT!
Four years ago, the citizens of Colusa voted to approve a 1% general sales tax increase focused on improving our city's infrastructure. The measure included an oversight committee and, in essence, was a four-year "prove it" commitment.
On July 21, the City Council voted to place the measure back on the ballot for another four-year "prove it" period.
So, what has your investment accomplished?
With the revenue generated by this measure, the City has been able to apply rubberized asphalt preservation treatments to every street south of Webster Street, along with several other high-priority areas. These improvements help extend the life of our roads while putting us in a stronger position to compete for future state and federal grant funding.
In addition, we've completed the full rehabilitation of Wescott Road, built new restrooms at Veterans Park, and are preparing for the complete reconstruction of 8th Street from Harris Street to the High School, including new sidewalks and a bike lane.
I believe these projects demonstrate that your tax dollars have been put to good use.
Unlike a parcel tax, a general sales tax is also paid by people who shop, dine, or purchase fuel in Colusa but don't live here. That means visitors help invest in our community alongside residents.
The reality is that this tax is the primary path forward for continued investment in maintaining and improving our streets. If renewed, Colusa's sales tax rate would be comparable to neighboring communities like Williams and Marysville, while still remaining lower than cities such as Chico and Sacramento.
Some have criticized the pace or sequence of these projects. That's understandable, but we're following a state-approved pavement management plan that allows us to maximize grant opportunities and stretch every local dollar as far as possible.
I can't imagine the long-term consequences of stopping now and allowing our infrastructure to fall further behind.
Think about it. Is an extra 75 cents when you fill up your gas tank, an extra 12 cents on a value meal, or an extra 4 cents on a cup of coffee worth safer, smoother streets and continued investment in our community?
That's a question every voter will have to answer for themselves.