The world of funding measures can often be dry and overlooked. However, there are significant benefits to understanding the tax measures that may slightly impact the pocketbook but can significantly impact our collective livelihood. For residents of Yucca Valley, these impactful measures are known as Measure Y and Measure Z.
The lesser-known Measure Z is a local, half-cent tax measure through which funds are appropriated to reduce the costs of sewer assessment for residents. These funds are given to the Hi-Desert Water District and are distributed equitably amongst property owners on their tax bills. Measure Z helps lower these costs by approximately 50% per year.
Of the two measures, Measure Y is the one that is commonly heard around the Morongo Basin, from Town Council Meetings and in the news. This a local, half-cent tax measure that provides funds to advance three specific goals: Public Safety, Infrastructure, and Quality of Life. Some of these funds have gone to fund public works projects, such as crack and slurry seal project to repair the roads. Measure Y funds have also helped fund programs at the Senior Center such as chair yoga and karaoke, as well as staff positions at the local Sheriff’s Department, including a detective and safety specialist. Recently, the Old Town Beautification and Sustainability Project has been made possible in part due to Measure Y funds.
Despite each being anticipated to earn only $1.5 million, Measures Y and Z each garner roughly $2.8 million for the town each year. According to Dr. John Husing, nearly half of this revenue is paid for by non-residents, thanks to local tourism. The Measures have also provoked community input and engagement since their enactment. The Measure Revenue Oversight Commission was formed in 2021; community members apply to sit on the commission and have a say in fund distribution. There are also Measure Y Partnership Funds, which local nonprofits or service organizations can apply for to increase the Quality of Life for residents.
According to Curtis Yakimow, the Town Manager for Yucca Valley, resident engagement is important for these Measures to thrive.
“We have an annual report that will be coming out shortly on Measure Y and Z. You can always go to our website or take a look at the newsletter that will come out and find out more information and stay engaged. Quite frankly, at the end of the day, that’s what we need is an engaged and informed resident base to make the best decisions for this community.”
Both Measures were voted into existence in 2016, to expire in early 2027. The Revenue Oversight Commission has recommended that the Town Council consider reauthorization this year. Should that not occur, Yucca Valley residents can expect to see Measures Y and Z on the ballots again in November 2026.
