Public safety sales tax
Measure S proposes a half-cent countywide sales tax for 20 years to raise about $20 million annually for a dedicated Public Safety Fund supporting Sheriff and Fire needs including stations, equipment, 911 operations, and facilities across Imperial County communities, with audits and oversight. It appears on the November 2026 ballot amid cost-of-living concerns and debates over new taxes.
Should Imperial County voters approve the half-cent public safety sales tax (Measure S)?
Tap a point along the line below to show where you stand.
How important is this to you?
✓ You told us where you stand
Sources
Safer Imperial County — https://www.saferimperialcounty.com/
Half-cent (0.5%) countywide sales tax for 20 years, projected ~$20 million annually. Dedicated Public Safety Fund for Sheriff’s Office and Fire Department
IV Press Online opinion — https://www.ivpressonline.com/opinion/the-mex-factor-why-imperial-valley-voters-should-reject-every-new-tax-on-the-ballot/article_091fb159-0049-4404-b55f-f0c300c6cae2.html
An opinion piece urged rejecting “every new tax.”
Positions on this issue · liberal → conservative
- Approve and pair with higher taxes on wealth or business to fund expansive safety and social programs
- Approve Measure S to guarantee dedicated funding for sheriff, fire stations, and emergency services
- Undecided pending clearer proof of need and oversight effectiveness
- Reject new sales taxes and instead reallocate existing budget toward public safety priorities
- Reject all new taxes including Measure S and reduce overall county spending and regulations