An independent survey recently found that a majority of San Benito County residents are satisfied with the job performance of local government at the City and County levels but still have concerns over jobs. The survey also found that a majority of voters would be willing to pay a tax to support parks, recreation and library services, but fell short of a 2/3 majority needed to pass such a tax.
"The community values the educational, technical and cultural benefits that it receives from its libraries and the health benefits of its parks for all factions of the population, youth, adults and seniors," said Interim County Administrative Officer Ray Espinoza in a report to the Board of Supervisors. "However, in order to pass the measure establishing a Community Services District, including a Revenue Measure, a super-majority 2/3 voter approval is required."
The study was conducted by Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz & Associates, an Oakland-based firm specializing in public policy oriented research and was conducted in response to a request from supervisors that the Parks & Recreation Department explore alternative funding sources in an effort to reduce costs to the county's general fund. To see the full report, click here.